Work out holding pattern time instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
A standard holding pattern is two straight legs plus two 180 degree turns. Each rate one turn takes one minute, so pattern time is twice the leg time plus two minutes: a one minute leg gives a four minute racetrack. Fuel used is holding burn rate multiplied by total time.
Holding pattern
pattern time = 2 x leg time + 2 min (two rate one turns); fuel = burn x total time / 60
Aviation results are planning estimates only. Always verify take-off, landing, fuel, weight and balance figures against the certified Aircraft Flight Manual, current performance charts and applicable aviation regulations before flight.
Above 14,000 ft the standard outbound leg lengthens to 1.5 minutes, making a five minute circuit.
Yes. Timing is flown on the outbound leg, and pilots adjust it so the inbound leg comes out at the nominal time against the wind.