Holding Pattern Calculator

Determine holding pattern entry type (direct, teardrop, or parallel), calculate fuel burn per circuit, and check speed limits.

Inbound Course to Fix

Your Current Heading

Holding Altitude

Fuel Burn Rate

gal/hr

Tab to move between fields

Entry Type

Direct

Fuel Per Circuit

0.7 gal

≈ 7 soda cans

Max Holding Speed200 kt IAS

Time Per Circuit4 min

Fuel Per Hour in Hold10 gal/hr

Outbound Heading180°

How to Use This Calculator

What each input means

Inbound Course to Fix: The published inbound course to the holding fix (from the approach plate).
Your Current Heading: Your heading when approaching the holding fix.
Holding Altitude: Assigned holding altitude — determines max speed and standard leg time.
Fuel Burn Rate: Fuel consumption at holding speed and altitude.
Leg Time: Standard: 1 min below 14,000 ft, 1.5 min at or above 14,000 ft.
Wind Speed: Wind speed for correction notes. Triple inbound WCA on outbound leg.

Entry Type: Direct, Teardrop, or Parallel — determines how you enter the hold.

Sector Analysis
Sector Angle = Aircraft Heading − Reciprocal of Inbound
180° − 180° = 0° = Direct Entry
Maximum Holding Speed
Based on altitude: ≤6000: 200kt, 6001-14000: 230kt, >14000: 265kt
Altitude: 6,000 ft = 200 kt IAS
Circuit Time
Circuit = 2 × Leg Time + 2 × Turn Time
2 × 1 min + 2 × 1 min = 4.0 minutes per circuit
Fuel Per Circuit
Fuel = (Circuit Time ÷ 60) × Burn Rate
(4.0 ÷ 60) × 10 = 0.7 gal per circuit