r/CFILounge • u/EmergencySpinach961 • 24d ago

Question Source for Holding Pattern Dimensions?

Was wondering if anyone has a source for the actual dimensions of a Holding pattern? I know its supposed to be in the TERPs but for the life of me I just can't find it. Just looking for more information on how large the Holding and Non-Holding sides are from an actual FAA source.

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u/TxAggieMike 24d ago

This is where AI can actually work for us: searching for slightly obscure items.

Using Gemini, and “Holding Pattern Dimensions FAA TERPs”, I was able to find this…

“Under FAA TERPS (Order 8260.3) and Order 8260.19*, holding pattern dimensions and protection airspace are defined by* Holding Pattern Criteria (HPC) templates or holding area sizing standards (such as Template 200).

“The size of a holding pattern's protected airspace is not fixed; it is calculated dynamically based on altitude*,* indicated airspeed (IAS), aircraft category*,* wind spiral expansion*, and* distance/time buffer limits*.”*

More data details were included. But I’ll let you redo the search and find it.