Plain English Meaning
A pointer to a particular paragraph in the FAA's AIM rulebook. AIM 7-2-3 is the paragraph that explains how cold air makes your altimeter read higher than you actually are, and what to do about it.
Full Definition
A specific section reference within the FAA's Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), Chapter 7 (Safety of Flight), Section 2 (Altimeter Setting Procedures), paragraph 3, which addresses altimeter errors caused by cold temperatures and provides guidance on cold temperature altitude corrections.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument training material when cold-temperature altitude corrections and altimeter limitations are being discussed.
Derivation
AIM stands for Aeronautical Information Manual. The numbering '7-2-3' follows the FAA's standard chapter-section-paragraph format used throughout its publications: Chapter 7, Section 2, Paragraph 3.
Why Pilots Care
When the air is very cold, your altimeter overstates your true altitude — you are lower than the instrument shows. AIM 7-2-3 is the official source pilots are pointed to for understanding this error and applying the correct altitude additions on approach. On a cold day near terrain or obstacles, this is a real safety issue.
Intuition Check
Do not read AIM 7-2-3 as a maneuver, checklist step, or regulation number. It is a pointer to a specific FAA guidance section.
Example Sentence 1
Before flying into a cold temperature restricted airport, the pilot reviewed AIM 7-2-3 to refresh the altitude correction procedure.
Example Sentence 2
The dispatcher reminded the crew to check AIM 7-2-3 because surface temperatures were well below standard.