Definition
The vertical height of a fixed point on the earth's surface, measured in feet above mean sea level (MSL). In aviation, elevation most commonly refers to the height of an airport's official reference point, which is the highest point on any usable runway.
Plain English
How high a piece of ground is above sea level. For an airport, it's how high the airport itself sits above the ocean.
Context Anchor
Seen on airport information pages, charts, airport diagrams, obstacle notes, and NOTAMs.
Derivation
From the Latin elevare, meaning 'to lift up' or 'raise.' In aviation it refers to how far a fixed point on the ground has been 'lifted' above sea level by the terrain.
Why Pilots Care
Used to set the altimeter correctly, calculate aircraft performance, and ensure obstacle clearance on departure and arrival.
Grounding Statement
If an airport has an ELEV of 5,000 feet, the airport surface is already 5,000 feet above sea level before the airplane even takes off.
Intuition Check
Elevation does not mean the airplane’s height at this moment. In this context, it usually means the measured height of a fixed place or object above sea level.
Example Sentence 1
Denver International Airport has a field elevation of 5,434 feet, so expect reduced aircraft performance on takeoff.
Example Sentence 2
Higher airport elevation means less air density and a longer takeoff roll on a hot day.