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2 Answers

Holding procedures

Asked by: 2238 views Instrument Rating, Private Pilot

Hello! first time using this website, but hopfully I can get a better answer regarding holding procedures during IFR training. My question is this ( and this has two questions when entering the hold) ; When entering the hold from a parallel entry, when do you advise ATC when you are entering and becoming established in the hold? 

My second question is the same concept but during a direct entry. When is it the best time to Advise ATC when you are entering and becoming established in the hold.

Thank you for those who respond and have a good day!

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2 Answers

  1. Best Answer


    John D Collins on Feb 20, 2024

    I would consider I am established in holding when I initially cross the holding fix and that is when I would report.

    This is from the AIM:

    5−3−3. Additional Reports
    a. The following reports should be made to ATC or FSS facilities without a specific ATC request:
    1. At all times.
    (f) The time and altitude or flight level upon reaching a holding fix or point to which cleared.
    (g) When leaving any assigned holding fix or point.

    This often gets argued by pilots and controllers, but there is absolutely no ATC phraseology or pilot guidance that uses “report established in holding”.

    The regulation state:

    91.183 IFR communications.
    Unless otherwise authorized by ATC, the pilot in command of each aircraft operated under IFR in controlled airspace must ensure that a continuous watch is maintained on the appropriate frequency and must report the following as soon as possible—
    (a) The time and altitude of passing each designated reporting point, or the reporting points specified by ATC, except that while the aircraft is under radar control, only the passing of those reporting points specifically requested by ATC need be reported

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  2. Russ MacDonald on May 01, 2024

    John, I agree with you, except that it makes life much easier if, when ATC asks you to report established in the hold, to just do it the best you can without debating the issue.

    +1 Votes Thumb up 1 Votes Thumb down 0 Votes


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