Hold Vs. HILPT

A reader, a helo pilot from the U.S. Coast Guard, wrote to ask some interesting questions. It seems theyd just had an FMS upgrade that enables them to fly RNAV (GPS) approaches. All the approach holds that are course reversals (hold in lieu of procedure turn, HILPT) are shown with four-nautical-mile legs. He asked if it is required to fly the entire leg length. The e-mail discussion evolved to ask if a charted hold, such as a missed approach hold, also had mandatory leg lengths. These probing questions prompted some interesting virtual discussions at IFR.

Frank Bowlin

Wednesday, February 08, 2017 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

HILPTs (Hold in Lieu of Procedure Turn) allow pilots to shorten their charted leg lengths, but not exceed them, and pilots should advise ATC if they plan additional circuits to lose altitude or prepare for the approach.
Full holding patterns, such as those for missed approaches or en route traffic, must generally be flown as depicted regarding leg lengths to ensure obstacle clearance and compliance with the clearance.
Despite complex regulations and interpretations regarding holding pattern leg lengths, the safest and most practical approach for pilots wishing to deviate from charted or assigned holding pattern parameters (either HILPTs or full holds) is to always communicate with and obtain clearance from Air Traffic Control.

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A reader, a helo pilot from the U.S. Coast Guard, wrote to ask some interesting questions. It seems they’d just had an FMS upgrade that enables them to fly RNAV (GPS) approaches. All the approach holds that are course reversals (hold in lieu of procedure turn, HILPT) are shown with four-nautical-mile legs. He asked if it is required to fly the entire leg length.

The e-mail discussion evolved to ask if a charted hold, such as a missed approach hold, also had mandatory leg lengths. These probing questions prompted some interesting virtual discussions at IFR. Then, just as we were preparing this article, another helo-pilot reader sent us an FAA Legal interpretation mucking with our reasoning.