Direct holding entries are the absolute easiest entry to fly. There are no calculations, no intercept angles, and no complex wind corrections to worry about in the entry.
So now that we know how easy it is to fly a direct entry, how do we do it?
First things first, we need to be tracking direct to the holding fix in the direct holding entry sector. This may seem obvious, but double checking your entry region is critical, especially on a checkride.
Next, we cross the holding fix and make a standard rate turn in the direction of the hold to the outbound heading.
That’s it! You’re now in the hold.
A few key points to remember about direct entries:
Don’t try to make a direct entry into a parallel or teardrop. It happens, pilots look at a direct entry on an approach plate or other chart and decide that the entry really can’t be that easy. The pilot then flies past the entry and makes a turn back to the fix which changes the entry. It’s happened, trust me.
Most holds you will be given by ATC will be direct entry holds. This is more of a tip for those flying at higher altitudes in more congested airspace. If ATC needs you to hold for traffic, weather, or any other reason, they are going to give you an en-route direct hold. Again don’t turn it into something it’s not.
That’s it for direct, now it’s time to check out parallel and teardrop entries.