IFR holding patterns can be one of the more complex concepts in instrument flying, but they don’t have to be intimidating. This overview provides practical insights to help pilots feel more confident when faced with holding instructions.
IFR Holding Patterns Made Easier
IFR holding patterns can be one of the more complex concepts in instrument flying, but they don’t have to be intimidating. This overview provides practical insights to help pilots feel more confident when faced with holding instructions.
Real-World Experience with Holding
In over 20 years of flying, only one unplanned IFR hold was encountered—en route to Oshkosh in 2023, due to traffic ahead. Every other hold was either expected or requested, such as for a published missed approach. This highlights a key truth: for many general aviation pilots, holds are rare in everyday flying unless transitioning into more complex operations like Part 135 or 121.
Controllers and Holding Expectations
Many pilots worry about selecting the “correct” holding entry: direct, parallel, or teardrop. However, air traffic controllers typically don’t focus on the specific type of entry. Their main concern is that the aircraft remains on the protected side and follows the assigned instructions—maintaining timing, direction, and turn requirements accurately.
The Anatomy of a Hold
Standard IFR holds are flown to the right, in contrast to VFR traffic patterns, which are to the left. Holds can be based on time or distance and generally begin abeam the fix. For most aircraft, maximum holding speed is 200 knots below 14,000 feet. For turbine aircraft above 14,000 feet, the limit increases to 265 knots.
Three Types of Holding Entries
There are three types of holding entries:
- Direct Entry: The aircraft flies directly to the fix and begins the hold.
- Parallel Entry: The aircraft flies outbound along the inbound course, turns away, then returns to join the hold.
- Teardrop Entry: The aircraft flies past the fix on an outbound heading and turns inward to intercept the inbound leg.
Pilots can use their heading indicator—whether analog or digital—to determine which type of entry is most appropriate based on the radial and assigned direction.
Realistic In-Flight Application
Several examples illustrate how to visualize holding entries using a heading indicator:
- Hold southwest of Ocala VOR on the 210 radial: A direct entry if approaching from the north.
- Hold northeast of Ocala on the 030 radial: Could be a teardrop or parallel entry depending on the approach angle.
- Hold northwest of Ocala on the 330 radial: A clear example of a parallel entry.
When conditions are instrument meteorological, minimizing turns becomes important. In such situations, a teardrop entry may be preferred due to its simplicity.
A Message for All Pilots
Understanding IFR holds is valuable even for Private Pilots. One of the key takeaways is learning how to determine position relative to a VOR or fix—a fundamental navigation skill that benefits pilots across all certification levels.
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