Under what conditions may a recreational pilot fly above 10,000 ft MSL?

A recreational pilot may fly above 10,000 ft MSL provided they are below 2,000 ft AGL. This regulation allows for flying at altitudes that exceed 10,000 feet, but limits the height above ground level to maintain safety and visibility, especially in uncontrolled airspace. Flying below 2,000 ft AGL ensures that pilots can manage potential obstacles on the ground and provides a buffer zone for controlled airspace.

The other conditions mentioned do not adequately meet the safety and regulatory requirements set forth for recreational pilots. For example, flying between 2,000 and 5,000 ft AGL would mean exceeding the safe parameters for elevation in terms of visibility and obstacle avoidance. Operating in controlled airspace has its own set of regulations and doesn't automatically grant higher altitude permissions to recreational pilots. Similarly, while ATC authorization may allow heightened altitudes, it is not a requirement for all recreational pilots and does not provide blanket permission to fly above 10,000 ft MSL without adhering to established limits.