What weather condition was noted as warmer than expected in the density-altitude scenario?

• A. Warmer temperature
• B. Colder temperature
• C. Higher humidity
• D. Strong winds

Answer: (A)

Warmer temperature is what makes the density altitude higher than expected. Density altitude is basically the altitude at which the air density matches the current conditions in the standard atmosphere. When the air is warmer than standard, its density drops, so the density altitude increases. That thinner air means less lift for the glider, higher stall speeds, and overall poorer performance for a given actual altitude.

Colder air would increase density and lower density altitude, which is the opposite effect. Humidity can lower density a little, but not as much as temperature does, and winds don’t determine density altitude directly.