Holding Pattern Entry

When cleared to hold, pilots must determine the correct entry based on their heading relative to the holding pattern. The FAA defines three entry procedures (AIM 5-3-8), divided into sectors based on your heading relative to the inbound holding course. The sectors below are described for a standard pattern (right turns); in a nonstandard pattern (left turns) the sectors and turn directions mirror to the other side.

Direct Entry (Sector 1): The simplest entry. Fly directly to the fix and turn outbound. This is the largest sector — 180 degrees wide, covering headings from 70 degrees left of the inbound course to 110 degrees right of it.

Teardrop Entry (Sector 2): Fly to the fix, then turn to a heading 30 degrees from the outbound course into the holding side. After 1 minute, turn to intercept the inbound course. This applies in the 70-degree sector from 110 to 180 degrees right of the inbound course.

Parallel Entry (Sector 3): Fly to the fix, then turn to fly parallel to the inbound course but in the outbound direction on the non-holding side. After 1 minute, turn toward the holding side through more than 180 degrees and return to the fix or intercept the inbound course. This applies in the 110-degree sector on the non-holding side, from 180 to 290 degrees right of the inbound course.

Standard vs. nonstandard holds: In a standard holding pattern all turns are made to the right; in a nonstandard pattern, fix end and outbound end turns are made to the left, and the entry sectors are oriented to the holding side just as in the standard pattern (AIM 5-3-8). Use the Standard/Nonstandard toggle above so the calculator matches the turn direction published for your hold.