Holding Pattern Calculator

Optional: Wind

Holding Pattern Basics (Quick Guide)

Purpose: Spacing/delay while awaiting clearance or handling contingencies. The fix may be a VOR/NDB/RNAV point or DME fix.

  • Standard: right turns. Non-standard: left turns (when published/instructed).
  • Leg timing: ≤14,000 ft = 1:00 inbound; >14,000 ft = 1:30 inbound (or published DME).
  • FAA max speeds (KIAS): 0–6k = 200; 6–14k = 230; >14k = 265. (Use charted/ATC limits if different.)
  • Protected area: stays on the holding side; bias wind corrections to remain there.

Entry Selection (70°/110° Method)

Compare your heading at the fix to the published inbound course.

  • Right-turn holds: Parallel ≤110° clockwise from inbound; Teardrop ≤70° on the opposite side; otherwise Direct.
  • Left-turn holds: mirror of the above.
  • Within ~5–10° of the boundaries, either adjacent entry is acceptable—choose the simpler option.

Wind tip: start with inbound WCA; use about 3× that on the outbound, then tweak outbound time/distance so inbound meets 1:00/1:30 (or published DME).

Holding entry sectors (standard right-turn hold)
Entry sectors for a standard (right-turn) hold.
Basic racetrack hold with inbound/outbound and fix
Basic right-turn racetrack depiction with inbound/outbound and fix.