GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Statistics About The Average Plane Altitude

The average cruising altitude for commercial airplanes is approximately 35,000 feet.

Last Updated: June 23, 2024

How we write

In this post, we explore various statistics related to the altitudes at which different types of aircraft operate. From commercial airplanes cruising at around 35,000 feet to military drones flying at 25,000 feet, and the astounding altitude record set by the SR-71 Blackbird, we delve into the heights reached by various aircraft in the sky.

Statistic 1

"Commercial airplanes typically cruise at an altitude of about 35,000 feet, or roughly 7 miles above the Earth's surface."

Statistic 2

"The Concorde, a supersonic passenger airliner, had a cruising altitude of approximately 60,000 feet."

Statistic 3

"Boeing 747 jumbo jet typically flies between 30,000 feet to 45,000 feet, often to avoid turbulence."

Statistic 4

"The SR-71 Blackbird holds the altitude record for a manned flight, reaching a height of 85,069 feet."

Statistic 5

"The average altitude for a military drone such as the MQ-1B Predator is 25,000 feet."

Statistic 6

"Weather balloons can reach altitudes around 100,000 feet which is much higher compared to planes."

Statistic 7

"The optimal altitude for a propeller-driven aircraft is usually between 8,000-12,000 feet."

Statistic 8

"Long-haul flights often reach the maximum altitude faster, approximately an hour after takeoff."

Statistic 9

"The average flying altitude of an Airbus A380 is roughly 40,000 feet."

Statistic 10

"Helicopters on average fly much lower than planes, around 5,000 feet."

Statistic 11

"Drones flown by hobbyists must not exceed an altitude of 400 feet, as per FAA guidelines."

Statistic 12

"Gliders can often reach altitudes upwards of 28,000 feet."

Statistic 13

"Ballooning aviation flights average around 1,000 feet above ground level."

In summary, the statistics presented illustrate the wide range of altitudes at which different types of aircraft operate. From the high-altitude capabilities of the SR-71 Blackbird and weather balloons to the relatively lower flying heights of helicopters and propeller-driven aircraft, each aircraft type serves a specific purpose that determines its optimal cruising altitude. Understanding these altitude distinctions is crucial for safe and efficient air travel across various aviation sectors.

Jannik Lindner

Jannik is the Co-Founder of Gitnux and has been working in the digital space since 2016. He is specialized in content and tech.

Can You Trust Our Report?

The statistics are checked by us and then entered into the database. Our market data reports have been linked to by some of the largest publishers and companies on the Internet.

Learn more about our process here.