Flight Training Instruction - Cnatra - U.S. Navy

700. HOLDING
CHAPTER SEVEN
HOLDING PROCEDURES
Objective. Holding is a predetermined maneuver which keeps aircraft within a specified
airspace while awaiting further clearance from Air Traffic Control.
Discussion. Holding can be accomplished at an intersection, GPS Waypoint, DME fix, or
navigation facility. When ATC clears an aircraft to hold, a specified airspace oriented around
the holding fix is reserved, clear of other traffic. The extent of the cleared airspace is based on
the maximum holding airspeed, as listed in the FLIP GP and FAA AIM. Maximum airspeed for
aircraft is as follows:
0-6000’ MSL 200 KIAS
6001-14,000’ MSL 230 KIAS
Above 14,000’ MSL 265 KIAS
USAF Airfields 310 KIAS (unless otherwise depicted)
USN Airfields 230 KIAS (unless otherwise depicted)
NOTE
Slow to holding airspeed three minutes prior to reaching the
holding fix. In the T-6B, students may use 5 NM prior.
Clearance: ATC should issue holding clearance at least five minutes before the aircraft reaches
the clearance limit. The elements of the holding clearance are as follows:
1. The direction to hold from the holding fix. This is the general compass location in terms of
the eight cardinal compass points (i.e., N, NE, E, SE, etc.).
2. The name of the holding fix (may be omitted if included at the beginning of the
transmission as the clearance limit).
3. The radial, course, bearing, airway, or route on which the aircraft is to hold.
4. Leg length in miles if DME is to be used.
5. Direction of turn if left turns are to be made (referred to as non–standard holding).
6. Time to expect further clearance and any pertinent additional delay information (times are
given in ZULU/GMT).
HOLDING PROCEDURES 7-1