Holdings
1. Programming Holdings in the MCDU
Holdings can be defined manually or selected as part of a database procedure (e.g., an approach course reversal).
Accessing the Holding Page
There are two primary ways to access the HOLDING PATTERN 1/1 page:
Press the NAV function key -> NAV INDEX 1/2 -> select HOLD (LSK 5R).
Alternatively, go to NAV INDEX 2/2 -> PATTERNS (LSK 3L) -> HOLD (LSK 1L).
Once selected, the MCDU will display the ACTIVE FLT PLAN with "*HOLD*" in the scratchpad. The pilot must then select the desired line select key (LSK) adjacent to the intended holding fix.
Editable Parameters and Fields
HOLD FIX (LSK 1L): The name of the waypoint where the aircraft will hold.
SPEED (LSK 1R): The FMS commands a holding speed based on the following priority:
Pilot-entered speed (displayed in a large cyan font).
Standard default of 210 KIAS.
INBD CRS/DIR (LSK 3L): Allows the pilot to set the inbound course and turn direction (L for Left, R for Right).
LEG TIME / LEG DIST (LSK 2R/3R): By default, leg time is 1.0 min below 14,000 ft and 1.5 min at or above 14,000 ft. If one value is edited (e.g., Distance), the FMS re-calculates the other (e.g., Time) based on a groundspeed model.
Activation
After defining the parameters, the pilot must select INSERT/APPLY (LSK 6R). The holding pattern is then placed in a temporary flight plan (MOD FLT PLAN), which must be confirmed by selecting ACTIVATE (LSK 6R).
2. Holding Operations and Exiting
Entry: As the aircraft sequences the fix, the MCDU flight plan display changes the "FROM" waypoint to "HOLDING".
Exit: One minute prior to arrival at the fix, an EXIT prompt (LSK 6L) appears on the MCDU.
If EXIT is pressed while in the hold, the FMS will guide the aircraft back to the fix, sequence it, and then resume the normal flight plan.
The prompt changes to "EXITING HOLD". If the exit was premature, it can be reversed by selecting RESUME HOLD.
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