If assigned an altitude above a published minimum holding altitude, what should you do?

The correct response reflects the procedure for altitude management within controlled airspace, particularly when it comes to holding patterns. When an altitude is assigned that is above a published minimum holding altitude, you are required to maintain that assigned altitude unless a different instruction is issued by Air Traffic Control (ATC).

However, once you have been cleared for the approach, you are permitted to descend to the minimum holding altitude. This is important for safety and compliance with air traffic management protocols. The minimum holding altitude is designated to ensure that aircraft have adequate terrain clearance while being in a holding pattern, and the clearance for the approach indicates that an aircraft can safely descend to that level.

It's important to remember that unless you have received explicit clearance from ATC to descend, you must maintain the assigned altitude to ensure proper separation from other aircraft and adherence to safety regulations. Thus, the option that allows you to descend under specific conditions—once cleared for the approach—correctly reflects the protocol in this situation.