What happens if pilots do not adhere to altitude reservation?

When pilots do not adhere to altitude reservations, they create a significant risk for unintentional collisions with other aircraft. Altitude reservations are put in place to ensure that aircraft are operating at safe vertical distances from one another, particularly in congested airspace or near airports. If pilots deviate from these designated altitudes, they may inadvertently operate in the same vertical airspace as another aircraft, leading to potential mid-air conflicts.

Maintaining altitude reservations is crucial for effective air traffic management, as it helps organize the flow of air traffic and prevents scenarios where two aircraft might occupy the same altitude in close proximity. This safety measure is a vital part of aviation protocols to minimize risks and ensure the safe operation of all aircraft. Therefore, a failure to adhere to these altitude reservations heightens the chances of dangerous situations arising in the air.