What action should be taken if the reported altimeter at your destination is different than your current altimeter?

Adjusting the current altimeter before descent is crucial for maintaining accurate altitude awareness as you approach your destination. The altimeter setting is essential for ensuring that you are flying at the correct altitude above sea level and helps avoid unintended altitude discrepancies that could lead to dangerous situations, especially in controlled airspace or near the airport.

When the reported altimeter at your destination differs from your current setting, it indicates a change in atmospheric pressure. Correctly adjusting your altimeter ensures that you are using the most accurate reference point for the approach to your destination. This is especially important when transitioning to an environment with potentially different pressure systems, ensuring safe separation from terrain and other aircraft.

Maintaining your current altimeter setting could lead to altitude inaccuracies, especially during the descent phase where precise altitude control is necessary. Reporting the discrepancy to air traffic control may be courteous and useful if additional instructions are warranted, but taking immediate corrective action with your altimeter is the priority. Adjusting only if instructed by ATC also leaves a gap in responsibility since pilots are expected to manage their own instruments proactively in accordance with operational standards.