Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

At what altitude do most commercial aircraft typically operate?

1. 15,000 - 20,000 ft

2. 20,000 - 25,000 ft

3. 20,000 - 30,000 ft

4. 25,000 - 30,000 ft

The correct answer is: 20,000 - 30,000 ft

Most commercial aircraft typically operate at altitudes between 30,000 and 40,000 feet, with the cruising altitude often falling around 35,000 feet. However, since the highest altitude listed is 30,000 feet in your choices, selecting that range aligns closely with common operating practices for many commercial airlines, especially during climbs or descents that may approach but not exceed that range. The altitude range in the correct answer captures the typical operational environment of many aircraft, particularly during certain phases of flight when they might not yet reach the upper levels of their cruising altitude. In practice, airlines may choose to operate at various altitudes within this range based on air traffic control instructions, weather conditions, and aircraft capabilities, reinforcing the relevance of the selected answer. Though the other options represent altitudes that can be encountered during flights, they either fall short of the typical cruising altitudes or extend beyond the more frequently utilized flight levels, making the selected range the most representative for normal commercial aviation operations.