Which factors determine the choice of holding pattern entry methods?

• A. Aircraft color and pilot preference.
• B. Time of day and airspace class.
• C. Wind direction and inbound course.
• D. Aircraft speed and altitude.

Answer: (C)

Holding pattern entry method is determined by how your position around the holding fix relates to the inbound course and how the wind will push the aircraft. The inbound course sets the orientation of the hold, and the wind direction matters because it changes drift during turns and while flying the outbound leg. By considering both where you are relative to the inbound course and how the wind will affect your ground track, you pick the entry (direct, teardrop, or parallel) that lets you join and establish on the inbound course with the least extra maneuvering and drift. Other factors like time of day, airspace class, aircraft color, or pilot preference don’t influence the entry type, and while speed and altitude affect performance on the legs, they don’t determine which entry method to use.