Aviation Glossary - Service Ceiling

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Service Ceiling

The height above sea level at which an aircraft with normal rated load is unable to climb faster than 100' per minute under Standard Air conditions.

source: FAA Aerosense Glossary

The maximum density altitude where the best rate-of-climb airspeed will produce a 100 feet-per-minute climb at maximum weight while in a clean configuration with maximum continuous power.

source: FAA Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3A)

The highest altitude at which an aircraft can still maintain a steady rate of climb of 100 feet per minute.

source: FAA Weight and Balance Handbook (FAA-H-8083-1A)

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