13. Holding

Aim

Determine the candidate’s ability to establish the aircraft in a holding pattern using an actual or simulated ATC clearance.

Description

In actual or simulated instrument conditions, the candidate must demonstrate adequate knowledge of a holding procedure for a standard or non-standard, published or non-published holding pattern. If appropriate, the candidate must demonstrate adequate knowledge of holding endurance, including, but not necessarily limited to, fuel on board, fuel flow while holding, fuel required to alternate, etc.

Based on an actual or simulated clearance, the candidate will select a suitable entry procedure, enter the hold and establish the aircraft in the holding pattern. Also, the candidate will demonstrate the proper programming and use of Flight Management Systems as applicable.

Performance Criteria

(06/2017 FTG p.29) Assess the candidate’s ability to:

1. change to the recommended holding airspeed appropriate for the aeroplane and holding altitude, so as to cross the holding fix at or below maximum holding airspeed;
2. recognize arrival at the clearance limit or holding fix and initiate entry into the holding pattern;
3. follow appropriate entry procedures for a standard, nonstandard, published, or non-published holding pattern;
4. report entering the hold;
5. comply with ATC reporting requirements;
6. use the proper timing criteria required by the holding altitude and ATC or examiner’s instructions;
7. comply with the holding pattern leg length when a DME distance is specified;
8. use the proper wind-drift correction techniques to accurately maintain the desired radial, track, courses, or bearing;
9. arrive over the holding fix as close as possible to the “expect further clearance” time;
10. maintain the appropriate airspeed/V-speed within ±10 knots, altitude within ±100 feet, headings/tracks/course within ±10° or within 1⁄2 scale deflection of the course deviation indicator, as applicable and accurately tracks radials, courses, and bearings; and
11. maintain proper aircraft control and flight within operating configurations and limitations while in the hold.

Commenting a "1"

• Planned holding speed never selected. Speed during the hold kept _____ kts faster than max CARs authorized speed.
• Remained in the hold after last EFC time without calling ATC or requesting further clearance. No mention of Min Divert fuel.
• Did not make mandatory ATC calls (when required by ATC)
• Established the hold on wrong radial/track/side of pattern.
• Unable to maintain altitude/speed/track.
• Holding speed incompatible with aircraft configuration.

Commenting a "2"

• Planned holding speed selected late, only after aircraft established in the hold.
• Hesitation about remaining in the hold once passed EFC time. Improvised plan.
• Leave hold decision based on misinterpretation of CAR fuel requirement (CAR602.88)
• Mandatory ATC calls not as per SOP/manops.
• Laborious FMS holding entry required multiple attempts and support from other crewmember.
• Large Alt/Speed/Heading/Track deviations observed but corrected in a timely manner.
• Aircraft configuration to match IAS established late.
• Confusion regarding Air Speed Limitation regulations