Is the world flat?

04.03.2009

Submission:

All current special aeronautical studies under PANS-OPS and Annex 14 assume the earth is flat. However, accounting for earth curvature (approx 80 ft in 10 NM) can mean two or three extra floors in a high rise under the conical surface. Some contractors have realized this, and a few recent planning applications have quoted both orthometric and ellipsoidal heights. What are procedure designers doing about this, or are we all Members of the Flat Earth Society?
Bob Woodhouse - Canada

Answer or Commentary:

I am definitely a member of the Flat Earth Society. I hope the contractors do not find out about this as it will make life a lot more difficult.

I. W.