What are the three entry procedures into a holding pattern?

What are the three entry procedures into a holding pattern?

• A. Teardrop, Parallel, Direct
• B. Teardrop, Direct, Offset
• C. Parallel, Direct, Offset
• D. Teardrop, Parallel, Offset

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how to join a hold in a safe and predictable way based on where you are relative to the holding fix. There are three standard entry methods used to enter a holding pattern: teardrop, parallel, and direct. Direct entry means you cross the holding fix and immediately begin the hold on the published inbound course with the first turn aimed to join the pattern, without a deliberate course reversal. Teardrop entry is used when you’re coming from a position off the inbound course on the side of the hold. You fly a short teardrop leg off the outbound course, typically about 30 degrees to that side, then turn to intercept the inbound course and continue the hold. Parallel entry applies when you’re arriving from the opposite side of the inbound course. You fly a parallel leg to the inbound course, past abeam the fix if needed, and then turn to intercept the inbound course and establish in the hold. These three cover the common scenarios pilots encounter when joining a hold. An offset entry isn’t one of the standard entry methods used to begin the hold, though specific procedures may require adjustments when a hold is offset from the ideal inbound track.

The main idea is how to join a hold in a safe and predictable way based on where you are relative to the holding fix. There are three standard entry methods used to enter a holding pattern: teardrop, parallel, and direct.

Direct entry means you cross the holding fix and immediately begin the hold on the published inbound course with the first turn aimed to join the pattern, without a deliberate course reversal.

Teardrop entry is used when you’re coming from a position off the inbound course on the side of the hold. You fly a short teardrop leg off the outbound course, typically about 30 degrees to that side, then turn to intercept the inbound course and continue the hold.

Parallel entry applies when you’re arriving from the opposite side of the inbound course. You fly a parallel leg to the inbound course, past abeam the fix if needed, and then turn to intercept the inbound course and establish in the hold.

These three cover the common scenarios pilots encounter when joining a hold. An offset entry isn’t one of the standard entry methods used to begin the hold, though specific procedures may require adjustments when a hold is offset from the ideal inbound track.