What is the altitude range for small aircraft under 14 CFR Part 91?

Under 14 CFR Part 91, the regulations regarding the operation of small aircraft stipulate that an aircraft categorized as "small" is defined by its maximum certificated takeoff weight being less than 12,500 pounds. This definition is important for applying various regulations that govern flight operations, including those related to altitude restrictions and airspace management.

When aircraft weigh less than 12,500 pounds, they are accorded certain privileges and are subject to different regulatory measures compared to heavier aircraft. The operational limitations and requirements, including those concerning instrument flight rules (IFR) and visual flight rules (VFR), can vary significantly. These distinctions are crucial for pilots to understand, as they help determine how flight operations should be conducted safely and legally.

The other options suggest weight limits that exceed this standard definition for small aircraft, which would place them into different categories of aircraft performance and operating requirements. Therefore, the designation of small aircraft under 14 CFR Part 91 focuses specifically on that 12,500-pound threshold for operational regulations.