Helicopters typically fly at altitudes ranging from about 500 feet to 5,000 feet above ground level for most operations such as emergency services, law enforcement, and passenger transport

. For high-altitude operations, specialized helicopters can fly up to around 10,000 feet or slightly higher, which is considered the practical upper limit for hovering due to thinner air reducing lift and engine performance

. Some high-performance helicopters can hover up to approximately 10,400 to 13,800 feet, useful for mountain rescue missions

. The maximum operational altitude for turbine-powered helicopters can reach up to about 25,000 feet under ideal conditions, though this is not typical for regular flights and requires specialized equipment and conditions

. The altitude record for helicopter flight is even higher, with some historical flights exceeding 40,000 feet, but these are exceptional cases

. Key factors limiting helicopter altitude include reduced air density at higher altitudes, which decreases lift and engine power, and the need for oxygen masks above 12,500 feet for pilot safety

. Additionally, environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity affect performance, with "hot and high" conditions making it harder for helicopters to generate lift

. In summary:

• Typical operational altitude: 500 to 5,000 feet
• High-altitude operations: up to 10,000–13,800 feet (hovering)
• Maximum operational altitude for turbine helicopters: ~25,000 feet
• Record altitude flights: over 40,000 feet (rare and specialized)

These limits are influenced by helicopter type, engine power, environmental conditions, and mission requirements