Absolute ceiling

Absolute Ceiling is the maximum altitude at which an aircraft can sustain level flight. The absolute ceiling is where the aircraft's rate of climb would be zero. This is different from the service ceiling, which is the altitude at which an aircraft can no longer climb at a rate greater than 100 feet per minute (30.48 meters per minute).

Definition

The absolute ceiling is the highest altitude at which an aircraft can fly under a set of conditions. It is determined by the aircraft's aerodynamic characteristics, engine performance, and weight. The absolute ceiling is the point at which the aircraft's maximum rate of climb drops to zero. This means that the aircraft cannot climb any higher without losing speed or stalling.

Factors Affecting Absolute Ceiling

Several factors can affect an aircraft's absolute ceiling. These include:

• Aerodynamics: The design of the aircraft, including its wing shape and size, can affect its ability to generate lift. The more lift an aircraft can generate, the higher its absolute ceiling.

• Engine Performance: The power output of an aircraft's engine(s) can also affect its absolute ceiling. The more power an engine can produce, the higher the aircraft can fly.

• Weight: The weight of an aircraft can also affect its absolute ceiling. The heavier an aircraft is, the more lift it needs to generate to stay aloft. This means that a heavier aircraft will have a lower absolute ceiling than a lighter one.

Comparison with Service Ceiling

The absolute ceiling should not be confused with the service ceiling. The service ceiling is the altitude at which an aircraft can no longer climb at a rate greater than 100 feet per minute (30.48 meters per minute). The service ceiling is typically lower than the absolute ceiling, as it takes into account the practical limitations of operating an aircraft, such as the need to maintain a safe margin above the stall speed.

See Also

• Flight ceiling
• Service ceiling
• Coffin corner