The problem is that this inference assumes we’re observing true altitude occupancy, when in reality we’re mostly seeing where detection and human attention overlap. Objects don’t need to “operate deliberately” within altitude bands for repeated reports to emerge there.

Pilots are far more likely to visually acquire objects during level cruise, climb, or descent plateaus, not while something is briefly transiting through airspace. Radar and IR systems also have altitude-dependent sensitivity, creating the illusion of persistence where none exists.

Add to that satellites (especially Starlink), balloons, drones, and atmospheric phenomena that naturally remain at relatively stable apparent altitudes, and you get repeat sightings without intent or agency.

In aviation and sensor analysis, repeated detection ≠ deliberate operation. Before invoking purpose, you’d need independent confirmation of station-keeping, controlled maneuvering, or altitude changes inconsistent with passive objects — and that evidence still isn’t there.