AIM
4/3/14
5−4−32
Arrival Procedures
5.
A holding pattern in lieu of procedure turn
may be specified for course reversal in some
procedures. In such cases, the holding pattern is
established over an intermediate fix or a final
approach fix. The holding pattern distance or time
specified in the profile view must be observed. For a
hold−in−lieu−of−PT, the holding pattern direction
must be flown as depicted and the specified leg
length/timing must not be exceeded. Maximum
holding airspeed limitations as set forth for all
holding patterns apply. The holding pattern maneuver
is completed when the aircraft is established on the
inbound course after executing the appropriate entry.
If cleared for the approach prior to returning to the
holding fix, and the aircraft is at the prescribed
altitude, additional circuits of the holding pattern are
not necessary nor expected by ATC. If pilots elect to
make additional circuits to lose excessive altitude or
to become better established on course, it is their
responsibility to so advise ATC upon receipt of their
approach clearance.
NOTE
−
Some approach charts have an arrival holding pattern
depicted at the IAF using a “thin line” holding symbol. It
is charted where holding is frequently required prior to
starting the approach procedure so that detailed holding
instructions are not required. The arrival holding pattern
is not authorized unless assigned by Air Traffic Control.
Holding at the same fix may also be depicted on the enroute
chart. A hold
−in−lieu of procedure turn is depicted by a
“thick line” symbol, and is part of the instrument approach
procedure as described in paragraph 5
−4−9. (See U. S.
Terminal Procedures booklets page E1 for both examples.)
6.
A procedure turn is not required when an
approach can be made directly from a specified
intermediate fix to the final approach fix. In such
cases, the term “NoPT” is used with the appropriate
course and altitude to denote that the procedure turn
is not required. If a procedure turn is desired, and
when cleared to do so by ATC, descent below the
procedure turn altitude should not be made until the
aircraft is established on the inbound course, since
some NoPT altitudes may be lower than the
procedure turn altitudes.
b. Limitations on Procedure Turns
1.
In the case of a radar initial approach to a final
approach fix or position, or a timed approach from a
holding fix, or where the procedure specifies NoPT,
no pilot may make a procedure turn unless, when final
approach clearance is received, the pilot so advises
ATC and a clearance is received to execute a
procedure turn.
2.
When a teardrop procedure turn is depicted
and a course reversal is required, this type turn must
be executed.
3.
When a holding pattern replaces a procedure
turn, the holding pattern must be followed, except
when RADAR VECTORING is provided or when
NoPT is shown on the approach course. The
recommended entry procedures will ensure the
aircraft remains within the holding pattern’s
protected airspace. As in the procedure turn, the
descent from the minimum holding pattern altitude to
the final approach fix altitude (when lower) may not
commence until the aircraft is established on the
inbound course. Where a holding pattern is
established in−lieu−of a procedure turn, the
maximum holding pattern airspeeds apply.
REFERENCE
−
AIM, Holding, Paragraph 5
4.
The absence of the procedure turn barb in the
plan view indicates that a procedure turn is not
authorized for that procedure.
5
−
4
−
10. Timed Approaches from a Holding
Fix
a. TIMED APPROACHES
may be conducted
when the following conditions are met:
1.
A control tower is in operation at the airport
where the approaches are conducted.
2.
Direct communications are maintained
between the pilot and the center or approach
controller until the pilot is instructed to contact the
tower.
3.
If more than one missed approach procedure
is available, none require a course reversal.
4.
If only one missed approach procedure is
available, the following conditions are met:
(a)
Course reversal is not required; and,
(b)
Reported ceiling and visibility are equal
to or greater than the highest prescribed circling
minimums for the IAP.
5.
When cleared for the approach, pilots must
not execute a procedure turn. (14 CFR
Section 91.175.)