Question 1

Where does the elevation data come from?

Accepted Answer

Ground elevation is sampled along the great-circle route using Open-Meteo's public elevation API, which draws from global digital elevation models. It reflects real-world terrain, not in-sim scenery.

Question 2

Why does the profile look jagged at low sample counts?

Accepted Answer

The route is sampled at points spaced roughly every 10 nautical miles. Short routes get fewer samples, so sharp terrain features between samples may be smoothed over - use it to spot general high terrain, not for precise obstacle clearance.

Question 3

Can I use this for real-world flight planning?

Accepted Answer

No. This tool is for flight simulation reference only. Real-world terrain and obstacle clearance planning requires certified charts and databases.