Holding Speed Limitations¶
Speed Limitations: When you're above 6,000' MSL and at or below 14,000' MSL, you're limited to 230 KIAS in a holding pattern - unless you receive an exception from ATC. The aircraft should be at or below the maximum speed prior to initially crossing the holding fix to avoid exiting the protected airspace. Pilots unable to comply with the maximum airspeed restriction should notify ATC. Holding patterns at USAF airfields only - 310 KIAS maximum, unless otherwise depicted. Standard limitations for Speed, Rate of turn and Timing (Holding) Enter and fly holding pattern at or below given (Standard) IAS. Non-standard (i.e. lower) maximum holding speeds are published on the relevant charts. WS The levels tabulated represent 'altitudes' or corresponding 'flight levels' depending upon the altimeter setting in use. Advise ATC if assigned speed is conflicting with: - Prescribed maximum. - Minimum safe airspeed for any particular operation. A limiting DME distance or VOR radial overrides an outbound timing. ICAO PANS-OPS:
* 170 kt for holdings limited to CAT A/B aircraft only. All turns are to be made at a bank angle of 25 or at a rate of 3 per second, whichever requires the lesser bank. Outbound timing begins over or abeam the fix whichever occurs later. If the abeam position cannot be determined, start timing when turn to outbound is completed. Make allowance for known wind by applying corrections both to heading and timing during entry and while flying in the holding pattern.
NOTES:
- Pilots are to advise ATC immediately if airspeeds in excess of those specified above become necessary for any reason, including turbulence. After such higher speed is no longer necessary, the aircraft should be operated at or below the specified airspeeds and ATC notified
- Airspace protection for turbulent air holding is based on a maximum of 280 KIAS or Mach 0.8, whichever is lower, from the Minimum Holding Altitude (MHA) to 34000' and Mach .83 above that altitude.
- Considerable impact on the flow of air traffic may result when aircraft hold at speeds which are higher than those specified above. After departing a holding fix, pilots should resume normal speed subject to other requirements, such as speed limitations in the vicinity of controlled airports, specific ATC requests, etc.