What is the proper term for an altimeter reading of 29.92?

The correct term for an altimeter reading of 29.92 is referred to as “altimeter twenty-nine point ninety-two.” This terminology is used in aviation communication to ensure clarity and precision when discussing altimeter settings, as it conveys the exact value without ambiguity.

Using the phrase "twenty-nine point ninety-two" accurately reflects the reading including the decimal point, which is crucial in aviation where precision is vital for aircraft altitude and safety. This precise communication helps prevent misunderstandings that could lead to dangerous situations.

Alternative phrasings like “altimeter thirty” could imply rounding up to the nearest whole number, leading to a significant difference in altitude perception among pilots and air traffic controllers. Similarly, “altimeter two nine nine two” is not the standard form used in aviation for altimeter settings and could confuse those interpreting the information. Finally, simply stating “altimeter twenty-nine” omits the critical part of the reading—the “point ninety-two”—losing the specificity required for safe flight operations.