maximum altitude

USAGE SUMMARY

"maximum altitude" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when referring to the highest altitude that an object (such as an airplane) has reached. For example, "The airplane reached its maximum altitude of 33,000 feet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The number of strikes went up as the maximum altitude increased.

The Economist

Mr. Glenn saw three sunsets and sunrises that Tuesday, from a maximum altitude of 162 miles.

The New York Times - Science

Planes that exceed their maximum altitude may lose lift, causing an aerodynamic stall.

Independent

Once in orbit, the conical Orion capsule will circle Earth twice, reaching a maximum altitude of 3,600 miles.

The Guardian

Gemini 3, launched on March 23 , 1965 reached a maximum altitude of 139 miles (224 km) on the initial orbit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When the cloud's maximum altitude was less than 5km (3 miles), ATDnet detected no lightning from it.

The Economist

The plane's computers should reveal the maximum altitude at which the plane can fly at its current weight and temperature.

Independent

The robotic craft is fully autonomous and apparently achieved a maximum altitude of 96m during experimental flights in 2005.

The Economist

The cruising speed was 1,350 m.p.h. or over twice the speed of sound, and maximum altitude was to be 58,000 feet.

The New Yorker

The Predators are fairly slow and vulnerable, with a maximum speed of 140 miles an hour and a maximum altitude of 25,000 feet.

The New York Times

By contrast even the comparatively primitive two-person Gemini spacecraft of the mid-60s achieved a maximum altitude of 850 miles — more than twice as high.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When specifying the "maximum altitude", always include the unit of measurement (e.g., feet, meters, miles) for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "height" interchangeably with "altitude". "Altitude" refers to the vertical distance from a reference point (usually sea level), while "height" is the vertical distance of an object from its base.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maximum altitude" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition or as a subject complement. Ludwig AI shows it denotes the highest point or level reached, primarily in contexts involving aircraft, spacecraft, or geographical features.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "maximum altitude" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote the highest point or level reached by an object, typically an aircraft, spacecraft, or geographical feature. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that you specify the unit of measurement and avoid confusing it with "height". Related phrases include "peak height" and "highest elevation". Its register is neutral to formal, and the phrase functions primarily to specify an upper limit in vertical distance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

peak height

Focuses on the highest point reached, emphasizing the vertical distance.

peak elevation

Refers specifically to the highest point of elevation.

highest elevation

Emphasizes the vertical distance above a reference point, like sea level.

maximum elevation

Elevation refers to height above a given level, especially sea level.

topmost altitude

Highlights the uppermost limit of the altitude.

ceiling height

Refers to the operational limit in altitude for an aircraft.

greatest height

General term for the highest point.

highest point

A general reference to the position of greatest vertical extension.

apogee

The point in the orbit of the moon or a satellite at which it is furthest from the earth.

zenith

The point in the sky or celestial sphere directly above an observer.

FAQs

How is "maximum altitude" used in aviation?

In aviation, "maximum altitude" refers to the highest level a plane can safely fly, depending on weight, temperature, and design. Exceeding this limit can lead to aerodynamic stalls or pressurization issues.

What's the difference between "maximum altitude" and "service ceiling"?

"Maximum altitude" is the highest altitude an aircraft can reach, while "service ceiling" is the altitude at which the aircraft's rate of climb falls below a specified rate.

Is there a "maximum altitude" for drones according to the FAA?

Yes, the FAA sets operational limits for drones, including a "maximum altitude" of 400 feet above ground level in most cases.

What factors affect the "maximum altitude" a spacecraft can achieve?

A spacecraft's "maximum altitude" depends on factors such as its engine power, fuel capacity, weight, and mission objectives. Different missions require different altitudes.