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Teaching and Learning Flying - Airplane Instrument Rating

Holding


DEFINITION

Holding means flying an approximate race-track pattern to and away from a holding fix which may be a VOR, NDB, intersection or DME fix.

SAFETY FACTORS

Knowledge and skill in holding develop the pilot's proficiency in planning, orientation, and division of attention thus enhancing flight safety.
Holding may be a means to delay arrival until airport conditions are improved and approach and landing may be more safely accomplished.

TOLERANCES

Instrument Rating PTS (FAA-S-8081-4D)
III.C. Holding procedures
To determine that the applicant:
  1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the elements related to holding procedures.
  2. Changes to the holding airspeed appropriate for the altitude or aircraft when 3 minutes or less from, but prior to arriving at, the holding fix.
  3. Explains and uses an entry procedure that ensures the aircraft remains within the holding pattern airspace for a standard, nonstandard, published, or nonpublished holding pattern.
  4. Recognizes arrival at the holding fix and initiates prompt entry into the holding pattern.
  5. Complies with ATC reporting requirements.
  6. Uses proper timing criteria, where applicable, as required by altitude or ATC instructions.
  7. Complies with pattern leg lengths when a DME distance is specified.
  8. Uses proper wind correction procedures to maintain the desired pattern and to arrive over the fix as close as possible to a specified time.
  9. Maintains the airspeed within +/-10 knots; altitude within +/-100 feet; headings within +/-10°; and tracks a selected course, radial or bearing within ¾ scale deflection of the CDI.

OBJECTIVES

Encourage mastery of holding patterns
Develop student knowledge and skill in holding patterns to satisfy the Instrument Pilot PTS

PROCEDURES

Preflight
Holding Pattern Legs
Discuss Inflight
  • Demonstrate
  • Coach student practice
  • Holds at VOR, NDB, intersection, DME fix
  • Direct, parallel, teardrop entries
Postflight
  • Critique student performance

COMMON ERRORS

  • Incorrect setting of aircraft navigation equipment
      Visualize/draw hold to aid positional awareness
  • Inappropriate altitude, airspeed and bank control
      Standard rate turns
  • Improper timing
  • Improper wind drift correction
  • Failure to recognize holding fix passage
      Include navigation instruments in scan
  • Failure to comply with ATC instructions
      Request clarification if uncertain
References
    14 CFR parts 61, 91
    AIM
    Instrument Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-15


Greg Gordon MD, CFII
Updated: