Maintain

  1. Concerning altitude/flight level, the term means to remain at the altitude/flight level specified. The phrase "climb and" or "descend and" normally precedes "maintain" and the altitude assignment; e.g., "descend and maintain 5,000."
  2. Concerning other ATC instructions, the term is used in its literal sense; e.g., maintain VFR.

Source: FAA Pilot/Controller Glossary (definition from the 2023 edition; current: Change 1 of 7 August 2025).

Related terms

Glossary last updated 2024-07-25.

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