What is Altitude Testing
Altitude testing verifies the survivability and functionality of equipment when exposed to low air pressure. It forms a mandatory part of the qualification process for devices intended for installation on board aircraft or spacecraft. Products outside aerospace may also require an altitude test to demonstrate their ability to withstand stresses encountered during air transport.
Independent altitude test services simulate different flight conditions using specialised chambers. For non-critical equipment, test profiles typically include take-off, steady-state altitude, and landing. Where required, tests can also simulate rapid ascent or descent, as well as explosive decompression events for more critical equipment.
Our Altitude Testing Capabilities
Austest operates dedicated altitude simulation test facilities featuring:
- 6 altitude chambers, up to 4.2m³ (4200 L)
- Maximum altitude of 90,000 ft (2 kPa absolute)
- Computerised automatic pressure control
- Pressure cycling capability
- Rapid and explosive decompression testing
- Combined climatic and altitude testing
Austest is currently the only independent Australian pressure laboratory formally accredited for low-pressure (altitude) testing to key defence standards, including MIL-STD-810, RTCA DO-160, and DEF STAN 00-35, as well as many commercial standards.
Altitude tests carried out to the following defence and commercial standards:
• MIL-STD-810G
• MIL-STD-202G
• RTCA DO-160G
• DEF STAN 00-035
• DEF(AUST)5681
• IEC/EN 60068-2-13
• IEC/EN 60068-2-40
• IEC/EN 60068-2-41
• IEC/EN 60068-3-3
• SAE-J1455
• ISTA 2A
• ISTA 3A
• ASTM F2096-11
• ASTM D6653
• EN 50125-3
• AS/NZS 3707
• ST/AG/AC.10/11/Rev. 6
• BS/EN 45502-1
Additional Pressure Testing Services
In addition to altitude testing, Austest provides pressure testing services covering both low and high-pressure conditions:
- Pressure testing using both gas and liquid mediums
- Low-level positive air pressure testing using altitude chambers (up to ~300 kPa)
- High-pressure hydrostatic testing up to 70 MPa (10 MPa for cyclic pressure tests)
Testing can be configured to replicate operational or transport conditions, depending on the product and its intended environment.
When is Altitude and Pressure Testing Required?
Pressure and altitude testing are typically required when products are:
- Installed in aircraft or aerospace systems
- Transported by air, particularly sensitive or sealed equipment
- Exposed to pressure differentials during operation
- Required to meet defence, aviation, or international compliance standards
- Designed with sealed enclosures, fluid systems, or pressure-sensitive components
Early testing from an independent testing laboratory like Austest helps identify failure points before certification or deployment, providing independent, accredited results that support compliance and reduce risk as products move toward approval and market entry.
Why Choose Austest for Altitude and Pressing Testing?
Accredited Testing Capability
Testing is conducted to recognised Australian and international standards, with formal accreditation for low-pressure (altitude) testing.
Specialised Facilities
Austest operates purpose-built altitude chambers and high-pressure systems capable of simulating a wide range of real-world conditions.
Dedicated Project Management
Each project is assigned a single point of contact to manage your testing from start to finish.
Established Experience
Austest has supported manufacturers, importers, and exporters since 1991, delivering consistent, compliant test results across multiple industries.
Understand how your components will perform in real-world conditions with our altitude and pressure testing services. Contact Austest to get started.
FAQs About Altitude and Pressure Testing
What is an altitude pressure test?
An altitude pressure test evaluates how a product performs when exposed to reduced air pressure, simulating conditions at high altitudes. It checks that equipment continues to operate safely and reliably during flight or air transport, and can also assess performance during rapid pressure changes where required.
What is the relationship between pressure and altitude?
Air pressure decreases as altitude increases. As a result, products exposed to higher altitudes experience lower external pressure, which can affect performance, sealing, and structural integrity. Altitude testing recreates these conditions in a controlled environment to assess how equipment responds.
How long does an altitude test take?
The duration of an altitude test depends on the relevant standard, test profile, and product requirements. Some tests can be completed within a few hours, while more complex programmes involving multiple pressure cycles or combined environmental conditions may take longer. Austest can advise on expected timelines based on your specific application.
What is pressure testing?
Pressure testing measures how a product responds to controlled increases in pressure using air, gas, or liquid. It is commonly used to verify strength, sealing integrity, and resistance to deformation or failure under load. These tests are applied across a wide range of components and assemblies, including enclosures, vessels, seals, and fluid systems.
Do I need to follow a specific test standard?
In most cases, pressure and altitude testing is carried out to a recognised defence, aviation, or commercial standard, depending on your product and its application.
Why use an independent testing laboratory?
Independent testing provides unbiased, accredited results that support compliance and certification. Working with an experienced laboratory like Austest also helps identify potential issues early, reducing risk, avoiding costly redesigns, and supporting a smoother path to approval.