<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
          <<  Lancair Builders' Mail List  >>
          <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>
The definition of service ceiling is:

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

Have a look at:

AC 90-89A - AMATEUR-BUILT AIRCRAFT & ULTRALIGHT FLIGHT TESTING HANDBOOK

CHAPTER  6.

SECTION 2. SERVICE CEILING TESTS

1. OBJECTIVE.
   To determine the highest altitude at which an aircraft can continue to
climb at 100 feet per minute (Service Ceiling).

   a. Pilots who wish to determine the actual service ceiling of their
aircraft are offered the following suggestions:

      (1) Ask the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) to amend
the Operating Limitations to permit a climb to the aircraft's service
ceiling, if that altitude is above 18,000 feet.
      (2) Contact the local Flight Service Station (FSS) or ATC facility,
and reserve a time and airspace to make the test.
      (3) Install a transponder (reference FAR 91.215) or get a waiver.
      (4) Install a portable oxygen bottle, if plans are to go above 12,000
feet. (Recommend the pilot becomes familiar with the symptoms and cures of
hypoxia and hyperventilation. )
      (5) Review the engine manufacturer's mixture leaning procedures.
      (6) Maintain communications with an air traffic facility at all
times.

   b. The climb to the aircraft service ceiling should be made in a series
of step climbs during which engine performance, temperatures and pressures
are recorded. At the slightest indication of engine performance or aircraft
control problems, the pilot should terminate the test and return to the
airport.


Ted Stanley - A&P-IA
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
LML website:   http://www.olsusa.com/Users/Mkaye/maillist.html
LML Builders' Bookstore:   http://www.buildersbooks.com/lancair

Please send your photos and drawings to marvkaye@olsusa.com.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>