What cruising altitude is assigned to VFR aircraft operating above 18,000 feet?

For VFR (Visual Flight Rules) aircraft operating above 18,000 feet, the cruising altitude is typically assigned by air traffic control (ATC). This altitude assignment is based on established regulations and procedures that govern airspace usage, ensuring safe separation among aircraft, especially in the vicinity of Class A airspace, where specific altitudes are controlled.

At altitudes above 18,000 feet, aircraft generally fall under the jurisdiction of ATC and must follow their instructions to maintain safety and efficiency in the busy national airspace system. This includes considerations such as the need for altitude separation for IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) traffic, as well as accommodating VFR flights. Thus, ATC plays a crucial role in determining and assigning the cruising altitudes at these higher altitudes, helping to manage the overall air traffic effectively.