What should be maintained while turning away from the normal traffic pattern when executing a discontinued entry?

Maintaining altitude while turning away from the normal traffic pattern during a discontinued entry is crucial for several reasons. First, keeping a steady altitude ensures that the aircraft remains within a safe operational envelope and prevents potential conflicts with other aircraft that may still be in the pattern. It also helps the pilot to have better control of their aircraft and avoid unintentional altitude loss during the turn, which could lead to hazardous situations such as coming too close to the ground or other obstacles.

Additionally, maintaining altitude assists in preserving a clear situational awareness for the pilot and others in the vicinity. This ensures that the aircraft remains at a safe distance from nearby terrain and ensures compliance with established standard operating procedures. In a traffic pattern, where multiple aircraft may be maneuvering in close proximity, altitude maintenance is a critical factor in ensuring flight safety and a smooth transition back to the regular traffic pattern or into other flight maneuvers.

In contrast, while speed, heading, and direction are also important aspects of flight safety, they may be adjusted within certain parameters to safely execute the turn. However, altering altitude can have more immediate and severe consequences that could endanger the aircraft and others nearby.