What is a key feature that an "altitude hold" function provides?

The "altitude hold" function is designed to maintain a predetermined altitude without the need for continuous pilot input. This feature is particularly useful during cruising flight phases, allowing pilots to focus on other aspects of navigation and air traffic management, as the aircraft will automatically level off and maintain the selected altitude.

By engaging the altitude hold, once the desired altitude is reached, the aircraft's autopilot system takes over vertical control, compensating for minor altitude deviations caused by changes in pitch attitude or atmospheric conditions. This capability enhances operational efficiency and reduces pilot workload, contributing to safer flight management.

In contrast, adjusting for wind shears involves more complex flight management and is not a feature of the altitude hold function. Visualization of altitude on a display is important for situational awareness but does not encompass the action taken by the altitude hold function. While automated systems do assist with landings, altitude hold itself is not specifically designed for that purpose. Therefore, maintaining a fixed altitude without pilot intervention is the core function that defines altitude hold.