When are you considered established in the holding pattern?

When are you considered established in the holding pattern?

• A. Upon initial passage of the holding fix
• B. Upon crossing the hold fix
• C. After one inbound course
• D. After two minutes

Answer: (A)

Establishment in a hold means you’re already within the published racetrack around the holding fix and the pattern has begun. The moment you pass the holding fix for the first time marks that point, as you begin the outbound course and the hold is active. The other timings or milestones—like waiting a certain time or waiting for an inbound course—are about timing and entry procedures, not when you’re first considered established. So crossing the holding fix and starting the outbound leg is the moment you’re established.

Establishment in a hold means you’re already within the published racetrack around the holding fix and the pattern has begun. The moment you pass the holding fix for the first time marks that point, as you begin the outbound course and the hold is active. The other timings or milestones—like waiting a certain time or waiting for an inbound course—are about timing and entry procedures, not when you’re first considered established. So crossing the holding fix and starting the outbound leg is the moment you’re established.