Teaching and Learning Flying - Airplane Instrument Rating
DEFINITIONHolding 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 FACTORSKnowledge 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.
TOLERANCESInstrument Rating PTS (FAA-S-8081-4D)
III.C. Holding procedures
To determine that the applicant:
- Exhibits adequate knowledge of the elements related to holding procedures.
- 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.
- 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.
- Recognizes arrival at the holding fix and initiates prompt entry into the holding pattern.
- Complies with ATC reporting requirements.
- Uses proper timing criteria, where applicable, as required by altitude or ATC instructions.
- Complies with pattern leg lengths when a DME distance is specified.
- Uses proper wind correction procedures to maintain the desired pattern and to arrive over the fix as close as possible to a specified time.
- 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.
OBJECTIVESEncourage mastery of holding patterns
Develop student knowledge and skill in holding patterns to satisfy the Instrument Pilot PTS
- Holding clearance
- Setting aircraft navigation equipment
- Establishing holding airspeed
- Recognition of arrival at holding fix
- Prompt initiation of FAA recommended entry into hold
- Wind drift correction
- Use of DME in holding patterns
- ATC reporting requirements
- Coach student practice
- Holds at VOR, NDB, intersection, DME fix
- Direct, parallel, teardrop entries
- Critique student performance
- 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