What is the altitude range of Class C airspace?

Class C airspace typically extends from the surface up to an altitude of 4,000 feet above the airport elevation in a terminal environment, although the airspace's top limit can vary. However, the correct altitude range for Class C airspace is not represented fully by the answer you provided.

In reality, Class C airspace usually extends from the surface up to a designated upper limit, which is often up to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation. This means that the airspace is designed to allow for both departing and arriving flights to operate safely in a clustered environment while managing air traffic effectively.

To illustrate this further, while the other options provide ranges typically associated with other classes of airspace or are simply incorrect, it's essential to understand that the configuration of Class C airspace is characterized by its specific usage around busy airports, providing necessary air traffic control services to ensure safe distances, efficient operations, and the management of both controlled and uncontrolled airspace in a central area surrounding significant airports.

Knowing the designated altitude measure specific to Class C airspace helps in recognizing the operational limits for pilots and air traffic controllers, ensuring that all participants in aviation maintain safety protocols.