What is required for the autopilot to maintain altitude in RVSM operations?

For the autopilot to maintain altitude in Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) operations, it is necessary for the engaged autopilot to have the altitude hold mode activated. This mode allows the autopilot to continuously monitor and adjust the aircraft's altitude to ensure it remains within the required parameters without significant deviations.

In RVSM airspace, altitude accuracy is critical due to the reduced vertical separation between aircraft. The autopilot's altitude hold function is designed to provide stable and precise altitude maintenance which is essential for safe operation in this environment. This reliance on the autopilot to maintain altitude helps to reduce the workload on the pilots, allowing them to focus on other critical aspects of flying. Overall, the correct choice effectively reflects the conditions necessary for safe altitude control in RVSM operations.