Ref. Heavy Lift Helicopters SK-65 Flight Manual
The Sikorsky CH-53D is capable of hovering IGE at a ten foot wheel height at ISA +20 at 15,000 feet up to almost 32,000 lbs. At 95ºF and 15,000 feet it still has the ability to hover IGE at 28,000 ft. With an empty weight of 23,000 lbs that leaves very little for payload.