What is the altitude range for Class A airspace?

Class A airspace spans from 18,000 feet Mean Sea Level (MSL) to 60,000 feet above mean sea level (FL 600). This designation is primarily located over the continental United States and is important because it is where significant air traffic control procedures are implemented to manage high-altitude civilian operations, along with some military operations.

Pilots operating in Class A airspace must adhere to specific regulations, including the requirement for instrument flight rules (IFR) and must be in communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC) at all times. The airspace is designed to provide a structured environment for high-density commercial and jet traffic, which requires more stringent operational standards compared to other airspace classes. Thus, recognizing the correct altitude range for Class A airspace is crucial for understanding flight regulations and ensuring safety in the National Airspace System.