Holding Pattern Entries Made Easy

One of the most challenging things for any instrument pilot to learn and master is
the holding pattern. The FAA gives us some guidance in the Aeronautical Information
Manual on holding pattern entries, as they recommend three very distinct methods to
enter these patterns. Knowing when and where to use these entries will be discussed at
a later time. For today, I'd like to talk to you about how to fly each of these holding
pattern entries, and theyre easier than you might think!
I recommend that you memorize each of these entry methods and use them in
the real world to make your holding pattern entries. You can also download my show
notes on my website, and use it as a sort of fill-in-the-blank guide to flying each
procedure.
The first method, and the easiest to fly, is the Direct Entry. For the Direct Entry,
first fly to the fix, then turn in the direction of hold to the outbound heading. Remember, if
no holding direction is assigned by ATC, right turns are standard. If it is a timed hold,
start your time when you are abeam the fix, or whenever you roll wings level, whichever
comes last. Next fly outbound for one minute, or for the prescribed DME distance. Then
turn to intercept your inbound course. Youll notice that I didnt specify which direction to
make the turn inbound because there is a possibility that the wind has blown you to the
non-protected side of the hold. You will have to watch your needle deflection and make
sure that you are making the most efficient turn back to the inbound course.
The second method, and arguably the most difficult, is the Parallel Entry. For this
method, you are going to fly to the fix and then turn to the outbound heading. Be sure to
start your time when you cross the fix if it is a timed hold. Next, fly outbound for one
minute or fly the prescribed DME distance, then turn to intercept your inbound course.
Again, youll notice that I didnt specify a turn direction because of the effect of the wind.
The last method is the Teardrop Entry. Before we can fly this entry, we need to
determine the teardrop heading. Remember, your teardrop heading is always thirty
degrees off of your outbound heading. Making this calculation is easy if you can
remember the acronym LARS. For Left turns, Add 30 degrees to your outbound heading.
For Right turns, Subtract 20 degrees from your outbound heading. The result is your
teardrop heading. Just remember LARS: Left Add, Right Subtract. Now that you know
the teardrop heading, the entry is easy! Fly to the fix and turn to the teardrop heading.
Fly outbound for one minute, or the prescribed DME distance, and then turn in the
direction of hold to intercept the inbound course. The Teardrop Entry is the only one of
the three that really guarantees that you will stay in the protected area of the hold, so
turning in the direction of hold is recommended.
If you can memorize the three entry methods, flying holding patterns will have
never been easier!