During your flight test, what altitude maintenance is expected while in level flight?

In level flight during your flight test, maintaining an altitude within 100 feet of the desired altitude is the expected standard. This level of precision is essential for ensuring safe and effective navigation, as well as compliance with air traffic control regulations.

Flying within this range demonstrates that the pilot has a competent understanding of the aircraft's performance and can effectively manage the aircraft's altitude stability. It reflects a pilot's ability to make necessary adjustments to the controls to maintain altitude amidst potential variances caused by wind, turbulence, and engine performance.

The requirement for maintaining altitude within this range is designed to prepare pilots for real-world flying conditions, where fluctuations can occur, and being able to manage them within a small margin is critical for safety and efficiency in aviation operations. This standard helps instill good habits, ultimately contributing to the pilot's overall skill development.