How High legally
It all started in 1969 when assigned to an ARA unit. We used to hold at 500 to 6000 waiting to prep LZs for the slicks. Standard Purple Heart issued for facial rash from wearing oxygen mask.
Routinely filed from 8500 to 11500 in the guard and reserves to take advantage of winds aloft (OH-58, UH-1H). About the same altitudes in the S76 offshore GOM. 15,000 just for grins over Leeville, in a 206A. Max altitude in an S-62 was 1500 feet and 73 knots. Retreating blade stall buffet at 74 knots. 41,000 in a Citation 2. Reminded me of the S62 ride.