High Density Altitude Flying in a 100 HP C150

1. Adjust for Density Altitude:

   • Temperature and Altitude Effects: As altitude increases, the air becomes less dense, resulting in reduced engine performance and aerodynamic efficiency. At a density altitude of 6600 feet, the engine produces less power, and the propeller and wings are less efficient.
   • Performance Charts: Use the performance charts to find the rate of climb at the given density altitude. If the POH is not available, a general estimation can be made using rules of thumb.

2. Estimate Rate of Climb at 6600 feet Density Altitude:

   • Rule of Thumb for Climb Rate Reduction: On average, for every 1000 feet increase in density altitude, the rate of climb decreases by about 10-12% for small piston-engine aircraft.
   • Calculating the Estimated Climb Rate:
     • Sea level rate of climb: 670 fpm.
     • Density altitude increase: 6600 feet.
     • Percentage reduction: (6600 feet / 1000 feet) * 10% = 66%.
     • Estimated reduction in climb rate: 670 fpm * 66% = 442 fpm.
     • Estimated rate of climb at 6600 feet density altitude: 670 fpm – 442 fpm = 228 fpm.

Conclusion

The estimated climb performance of a Cessna 150 with an O-200 engine at a field elevation of 4700 feet on a density altitude day of 6600 feet is approximately 228 feet per minute. This estimate assumes standard conditions and no other external factors like wind or aircraft weight beyond typical values for the model. For precise performance data, always refer to the specific aircraft’s POH and performance charts.