Definition
On a three-pointer altimeter, the long, thin pointer (often with a triangular or striped tip) that indicates altitude in 10,000-foot increments. One full revolution of this pointer represents 100,000 feet, so each numbered mark on the altimeter face corresponds to 10,000 feet of altitude when read against this pointer.
Plain English
The skinny needle on the altimeter that tells you how many ten-thousands of feet you are above sea level. If it points to 1, you are above 10,000 feet; if it points to 2, you are above 20,000 feet, and so on.
Context Anchor
Seen on round-dial altimeters in pitot/static instrument discussions and when learning how to read altitude from multiple pointers.
Why Pilots Care
Correct interpretation prevents altitude misreads that can lead to airspace violations or terrain conflicts at higher altitudes.
Analogy
It works like the hour hand on a clock: it moves slowly, but it tells you the large part of the reading.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as a pointer that always means exactly 10,000 feet. It shows the ten-thousand-foot part of the full altitude reading.
Example Sentence 1
As the aircraft climbed through 10,000 feet, the 10,000 ft. pointer moved off zero and the striped warning flag disappeared from view.
Example Sentence 2
During the climb the pilot watched the 10,000 ft. pointer to verify when the aircraft reached the next flight level.