What Is Holding Pattern? Definition & Meaning in Aviation
A holding pattern is a racetrack-shaped loop that aircraft fly while waiting for clearance to land or continue.
In plain language
Controllers use holding to delay aircraft when an airport is busy, the weather is poor or a runway is blocked. Holding burns fuel, so crews watch their reserves.
Example
On a flight tracker, an aircraft near an airport tracing an oval shape is probably in a hold.
Why it matters
Holding is how controllers create space when an airport is busy or closed. If your arrival is delayed and the aircraft appears to circle, it is probably holding and will be cleared in turn.