No problem for a JR to be there, big problem for a pilot though. The JR is certified to 20,000 below 3,000 lb, and to 13,500 ft at AUW of 3,200.
I have had a JRII at 16,500. It was still climbing well and flew well. Why? who knows, I was young and foolish?
http://www.bellhelicopter.com/aircra...-3_detail.html