If communication fails, what altitude should generally be maintained?

If communication fails, what altitude should generally be maintained?

• A. Last assigned altitude
• B. Highest of assigned altitudes
• C. Minimum IFR altitude
• D. Cruising altitude

Answer: (A)

When two-way communication is lost, you should continue at the last altitude ATC assigned to you. That altitude is your current clearance, so holding it preserves ATC instructions and the separation you were cleared to maintain while you try to reestablish contact or proceed to the next point. You would only change altitude if ATC had told you to expect a different altitude and you can safely comply, or if obstacle clearance on your route requires a higher altitude. Cruising altitude isn’t the default because you’re not simply free to climb to a cruising level without a new clearance.

When two-way communication is lost, you should continue at the last altitude ATC assigned to you. That altitude is your current clearance, so holding it preserves ATC instructions and the separation you were cleared to maintain while you try to reestablish contact or proceed to the next point. You would only change altitude if ATC had told you to expect a different altitude and you can safely comply, or if obstacle clearance on your route requires a higher altitude. Cruising altitude isn’t the default because you’re not simply free to climb to a cruising level without a new clearance.