Which action is correct when conducting a descent-to-cruise transition?

When transitioning from a descent to a cruise level-off, it is essential to initiate a coordinated action that ensures a smooth transition to cruise flight. Advancing the power and raising the nose simultaneously at 100 feet prior to level-off is the correct approach because it effectively manages both speed and altitude.

This technique helps to counteract the natural tendency of the aircraft to lose altitude when reducing the descent rate. Raising the nose slightly while adding power allows for a stable and controlled transition back to the cruise configuration. This ensures that the aircraft levels off at the desired cruising altitude without excessive altitude loss or a sudden increase in airspeed, which could lead to an unstable flight condition.

In contrast, maintaining altitude and descending, beginning a descent without power adjustment, or only adjusting pitch fails to properly balance the necessary changes in thrust and attitude to achieve a smooth and effective cruise transition. Each of these alternative actions could potentially result in a mismanaged flight path, leading to an undesirable flight condition.