How high can ultralights fly?
Ultralights typically fly below 5,000′ AGL (above ground level), but they can climb higher. The FAA requires ultralights to stay below 18,000′ MSL (above sea level), but a pilot needs supplemental oxygen to breathe at altitudes above ~12,000′ MSL, anyway. Most ultralights don’t have in-flight mixture or propeller pitch controls, so as the air thins with altitude the aircraft’s ability to climb decreases. Ideal performance is typically in the 0-3,000′ AGL range, and that’s where ultralights typically fly. For most, it isn’t worth the extra engine strain to climb to higher altitudes.
