When issuing holding instructions, what information must you specify?

When issuing holding instructions, it is essential to specify all relevant information that ensures the aircraft can safely and effectively enter and maintain the holding pattern. This includes altitudes, routes, and directions.

Specifying the altitude is crucial because it dictates the vertical limit within which the aircraft must operate during the hold. The route provides the path the aircraft will follow to enter the holding pattern, while directions inform the pilot on how to navigate the holding pattern itself, whether it involves left turns or right turns.

As such, to ensure clarity and safety, all these components must be clearly communicated to the pilots. Thus, indicating that all options are required underscores the comprehensive nature of the instructions that must be provided when directing an aircraft to hold.