service ceiling

British  

noun

1. the height above sea level, measured under standard conditions, at which the rate of climb of an aircraft has fallen to a specified amount Compare absolute ceiling

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Example Sentences

The highest-performing fighter aircraft typically do not operate above 65,000 feet, although spy planes such as the U-2 have a service ceiling of 80,000 feet or more.

From Reuters • Feb. 3, 2023

Excess power means not only more speed, but better climb, higher service ceiling, more ability to lug the heavy armament load needed in modern fighters.

From Time Magazine Archive

Without pressurized cabins, planes now fly as high as 14,000 feet; with them, passengers will feel no discomfort at DC-4s service ceiling, 22,900 feet.

From Time Magazine Archive

It packs missiles and fast-firing 20-mm. cannons, has a 1,000 mi. combat range, a service ceiling of 55,000 ft.

From Time Magazine Archive

In service ceiling it had 170%, which would put it higher than most pilots could ever fly it.

From Time Magazine Archive