Holding Pattern

FLIGHT TRAINING PUBLICATION (FLIP) STUDENT GUIDE

CHAPTER SEVEN

Holding Pattern

In the upper right-hand corner of the planview box is a display of the terminal holding pattern

including recommended entry turns. It is oriented to magnetic North, as is the whole approach

procedure. It should be remembered that the entry turn is based solely upon aircraft heading

upon reaching the holding fix. To use this pattern, you should determine from which sector you

are approaching and execute the type entry shown by the codes right turn (RT), left turn (LT), or

teardrop (TD). Holding procedures will be discussed in the INAV course.

The holding fix is a specified fix used as a reference point in establishing and maintaining the

position of an aircraft while holding. Note that the holding fix is an anchor point for the folding

pattern. It is always the position where the holding pattern departs, or turns away from, the

holding radial. Arrival holding patterns are thin, solid black lines located at, or near, the IAF.

Missed approach holding is located near the Missed Approach Track (MAT) and uses its

symbology. In Figure 7-19, the holding fix is WEEMS (VAD 190/15). The pattern consists of

left-hand turns with 5-mile leg lengths. The inbound (010) and outbound (190) courses are

provided.

TACAN/DME Fixes

TACAN/DME fixes are identified by a short straight line intersecting a specified radial. If a

DME fix or radial is shown on the planview, something happens at that point, e.g., an altitude

restriction of turn of an arc.

Initial Approach Fix

The radio navigation facility from which the approach is being executed is shown at the center of

the planview box. The point at which the penetration is commenced is known as the IAF and is

identified by a small line intersecting a specified radial. (In the case of an approach without

DME, there will not be a line since the penetration must begin over the NAVAID, a position

known as "High Station.")

The IAF may or may not be located in the holding; most often it is the holding fix. In Figure 7-19,

the IAF is at 15 DME on the 190 radial from VAD. Additional identification for the IAF often

includes a 5 letter name, the symbol "(IAF)", or a box with its latitude and longitude.

Penetration Track

The penetration track is shown by a bold print dotted line with arrow markings and numerical

course indicators. DME fixes or radials which relate to altitude restrictions in the profile section

may by found at points along the penetration track. The FAF will be found at the end of the

penetration track (Figures 7-18 and 7-19).

TERMINAL PUBLICATIONS

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