Helicopter altitude ,,,

[Steve69]

Does anyone know the record, or appx altitude/limit a helicopter can actually fly? I know this will vary - but how high up can they actually go ,,, and how does the thinning of the air affect the height they can fly at?

[smiler65]

5000 ft.

[sft42]

Sorry smiler you're only about 8 times shy...the current 'copter record for altitude is 40,820ft..speed record 249 mph...for more info on records check out this page

http://www.cartercopters.com/goals.htm

[Jimbo1234]

The limiting factor is often the pilot - above 10-15,000 ft the lack of oxygen means that flight can only be carried out with additional oxygen and pressurisation. This is rarely fitted to most helicopers.