What is the importance of calibrating the altimeter before flight in the Beechcraft Travel Air BE-95?

Calibrating the altimeter before flight is crucial because it ensures accurate altitude readings, which is vital for the safety of the flight. The altimeter functions by measuring the atmospheric pressure and translating it into an altitude reading. However, atmospheric pressure can change due to weather conditions and variations at different airports. If the altimeter is not calibrated to the local altimeter setting before takeoff, the pilot may misinterpret the altitude of the aircraft, leading to potential altitude keeping errors, miscalculations regarding terrain clearance, and other navigation challenges.

Accurate altitude readings are especially important in operations like flying in controlled airspace, maintaining safe separation from other aircraft, and ensuring compliance with minimum altitude requirements over terrain and obstacles. If the altimeter is reading inaccurately due to a lack of calibration, it could pose serious risks to the aircraft's operations and safety. Thus, the importance of calibrating the altimeter directly relates to maintaining situational awareness and ensuring safe flight operations.