What is the expected behavior of pilots upon receiving an altitude change instruction?

The expected behavior of pilots upon receiving an altitude change instruction is to quickly descend or ascend to the new altitude. When air traffic control issues an altitude change, it is considered an authoritative directive that pilots are trained to follow promptly, assuming it can be accomplished safely. This requirement is part of the effective coordination between pilots and air traffic control, ensuring safe separation from other aircraft and maintaining the orderly flow of air traffic.

Pilots are trained to communicate with air traffic controllers about their current altitude and any potential issues, but the expectation is not to interpret altitude change instructions as mere suggestions. Upholding this directive is crucial for maintaining safety in the airspace, ensuring that pilots adhere to the instruction in a timely manner while still making safety a priority.

While it's important for pilots to assess the safety of any maneuver, refusing an altitude change instruction is not standard procedure unless they have a compelling reason. Additionally, notifying passengers of the change may be part of passenger management, but it does not take precedence over executing a change in altitude. Thus, option B captures the essential duty of pilots to act on altitude change instructions as per air traffic control guidance.