# Holding Pattern Computer — with wind correction & timing

> Precision flight navigation app for holding patterns and entry maneuvers. (iPhone/iPad app by Aviation Mobile Apps, LLC..)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/holding-pattern-computer/id1093542620 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Aviation Mobile Apps, LLC.](https://appshunter.io/developer/286046308)
- Category: Navigation, Utilities
- Price: $11.99
- Rating: 4.90/5 from 176 App Store ratings · 22 written reviews indexed
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 12.4 · 19 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2016-05-09
- Data updated: 2026-08-22
- Monetization: free
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/holding-pattern-computer/id1093542620/reviews.md

## What is Holding Pattern Computer?

Fly with Confidence: Holding Pattern App

Elevate your flying skills with Version 3.0 of the Holding Pattern App, meticulously crafted by aerospace experts. Ideal for both new and experienced pilots, this app turns complex flight maneuvers into simple, intuitive instructions.

Navigate the skies with precision using our turn-by-turn guidance for Direct, Teardrop, and Parallel entries and holds, ensuring perfect alignment with your flight path. Our patented technology analyzes wind patterns and flight dynamics to provide real-time, actionable directions that adapt to your needs, from bank limits to wind adjustments.

Version 3.0 introduces the only High-Precision Entry (HPE) system integrated with advanced Holding Pattern Solution (HPS) and EFC algorithms. Tested in real aircraft and simulators, including a 747-400 and a 747-400 Level D simulator, this update minimizes pilot workload and maximizes path accuracy. Experience our innovative Hybrid Parallel/Teardrop entry method to manage airspace efficiently, even in strong winds.

Each feature is designed with safety in mind, from individual data input screens that enhance focus to comprehensive guides and resources for in-depth learning. The new update also includes improved dialog boxes for crucial data input and seamless integration into your flight routine, ensuring you stay within FAA-regulated airspace.

With the Holding Pattern App, excellence in flying isn’t just a goal—it’s your new reality. Ready to transform your flying experience? Download now and visit HoldingPattern.com for more information.

## Key features

- Turn-by-turn guidance for Direct, Teardrop, and Parallel entries
- Real-time wind correction and flight dynamics analysis
- High-Precision Entry (HPE) system
- Advanced Holding Pattern Solution (HPS)
- EFC algorithms
- Hybrid Parallel/Teardrop entry method

## Recent user reviews (10 of 22)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/holding-pattern-computer/id1093542620/reviews.md

### 3/5 — FAA ONLY!

*2022-07-30*

Does not work for uk holds. Should be a warning here

**Developer response:** The current version of the Holding Pattern APP for both ICAO and FAA methods of flying the holding pattern is identical when using the Along-Track-Distance (ATD) rather than time. The Holding Pattern APP solves for the exact RNAV Turn Point, which is a function of TAS, turn rate, wind speed, wind direction, and ATD. DME Turn Points are replaced by RNAV Turn Points. This allows all aircraft flying different indicated airspeeds and altitudes in the holding pattern to intercept the holding radial at the same ATD.  
The difference between ICAO and FAA holding patterns relate to the time issue. FAA specifies required inbound time, while ICAO specifies required outbound time. The only limit on the FAA method in order to intercept the holding radial at the correct inbound time while using a constant bank angle is the ratio of the windspeed to the TAS (i.e., the windspeed ratio) normal to the holding radial must be less than 1. In the ICAO method of specifying the outbound time, there is a significantly lower limit on the windspeed ratio normal to the holding radial. This limit is a function of the turn rate and the required outbound time. For example, in the case of a standard rate turn and a one-minute outbound leg, the maximum windspeed ratio normal to the holding radial is 1/3. Any value greater than 1/3 will not allow the aircraft to re-intercept the holding radial with a constant bank angle. Most avionics boxes use a variable bank angle to try to intercept the holding radial. This will work when the wind is coming from the non-holding side. In this case, shallowing the bank angle will allow the aircraft to re-intercept the holding radial. However, if the wind is coming from the holding side and the aircraft is bank limited, the aircraft will always overshoot the holding radial. Thus, it is impossible to intercept the holding radial under these conditions. Again, this does not occur in the FAA method since there is always a unique solution to the RNAV Turn Point Problem. We call this solution HPS (Holding Pattern Solution). The first paper on HPS was published in 2018. The Holding Pattern APP uses the HPS analysis. 
 	There are other benefits of using the FAA method for flying the holding pattern, one of which is called High Precision Entry (HPE). In HPS, the aircraft is assumed to enter the hold along the holding radial. In HPE, an additional parameter is incorporated in the analysis, which is the heading of the aircraft tracking inbound to the holding fix. Here the solution of the RNAV Turn Point allows the aircraft to smoothly blend into the HPS ground track, and thus allows the aircraft to re-intercept the holding radial satisfying either the required inbound time or ATD. This capability will be incorporated in the next update of the Holding Pattern APP. The methodology used in the Holding Pattern APP can significantly reduce the holding pattern protected airspace, as well as reducing Pilot workload in the cockpit for both entering and flying the hold. 
A dialog has been opened with the FAA to convince ICAO of the benefits of switching over to the HPS/HPE methodology. If ICAO converts to the HPS/HPE method of flying the holding pattern, they can still use their current maximum IAS holding speeds versus altitude tables, since HPS/HPE only requires the TAS, turn rate, windspeed, wind direction, and either inbound time or ATD.

### 5/5 — Starting IFR now.

*2021-03-29*

I’ll fill this in more once I’ve used the app, for now I’ll use it to ask a question: why no Apple Watch app/watch face. Holding seems like the perfect time for a huge wrist mounted timer button that actually knows what’s next!

### 5/5 — Best holding app hands down!

*2021-02-10*

This app was worth the money. It really helped me visualize the hold & being able to check my work by using this app was a game changer. It made learning holds during my IFR training a lot easier. I highly recommend!

**Developer response:** Glad you liked the holding pattern computer.
In the next few days we will be releasing version 2.1 of the computer. The added features are:

(1) EFC time capability. The Pilot inputs the EFC time and the computer will calculate a final holding pattern track that will bring the aircraft over the holding fix at the EFC time.

(2) Heading indicator will rotate at the aircraft rate of turn, with a digital readout of the aircraft heading.

(3) Wind direction barb on the heading indicator

(4) Answer page now can show information on the aircraft ground speed and along track angle for the straight legs, and time for each of the turning segments. Also time to go in each of the legs, as well as time to the fix and time remaining to EFC.

There are a few other features in this version that may interest you.
Would greatly appreciate any feedback after using the new version.
Best regards
Les Glatt

### 5/5 — Finally. A solution that’s not dumbed down to the point of being unusable.

*2020-10-27*

Thanks so much Mr. Glatt. 

I got more than my money’s worth from the app before I tried it in the airplane, or even in a sim. My understanding of wind effects on hold patterns has improved exponentially.

**Developer response:** Glad to see that the APP helped improve your understanding of how the winds affect the timing and wind correction in the holding pattern.

I just wanted to give you a heads-up on a new update coming out in the next few weeks. The new features are listed below:

(1) In regard to the Expect Further Clearance time to leave the holding fix- You will be able to input the EFC time and the APP will provide a final outbound heading and time to allow the aircraft to reach the holding fix exactly at the EFC time.

(2) The heading indicator will now rotate with the turn rate of the aircraft. You will see the aircraft move around the holding pattern ground track in real time, just like in the aircraft.

(3) Wind direction and magnitude will be shown on the heading indicator and will rotate with the heading indicator. This will allow the Pilot to always maintain situational awareness about where the wind is coming from. In addition, a heading line will protrude from the aircraft so that you can see the wind correction angle during the holding circuit.

(4) The answer page will also show timing for each of the legs, and along the straight legs, it will show the groundspeed and ground track angle the aircraft is flying. It will also show the radial and distance from the holding fix of each of the 3 points around the holding pattern.

I also want to give you a heads-up on another release that will be coming in the next 3-4 months. This is a new and innovative procedure for entering the holding pattern. The method will still use the direct, teardrop and parallel methods for entering the holds, however, after crossing the fix, it will provide a heading and time to fly that heading, such that the aircraft will smoothly intercept the holding pattern solution. This will allow the aircraft to intercept the holding radial exactly at the require time or distance from the holding fix on the first entry to the hold. This method minimizes the footprint of required holding pattern protected airspace.

If you would like to see an example of the holding pattern entry capability, send an email to lgtech@roadrunnner.com, and I will send you a few PowerPoint slides showing the capability.

Best regards,
Les Glatt

### 4/5 — Pretty good

*2020-09-17*

I like this app it’s easy topi use and has helped me learn how to fly holding patterns. It needs to be cheaper. This app is only worth 4 or 5 dollars. But oh well I’d rather pay a few extra dollars here than fail a check ride.

I would really like the heading indicator to point up. As you would see it in the airplane. This app only has north up and I have to turn my device to point it the right way. Please add this feature.

### 5/5 — Brilliant

*2020-06-04*

I use this app whenever I am flying or practicing IFR approaches.  Saves all the mental arithmetic.

### 5/5 — Great holding app

*2019-08-27*

Works well for me, thanks for the app

### 4/5 — Wind adjustments to Hold patterns is a big plus !

*2019-08-16*

This app is a complete solution to holding patterns and is structured correctly in the setup process. An improvement would be to allow the app to run in the background to be called upon when required in flight.

### 5/5 — Brilliant app!!

*2019-04-25*

Great app, very nice design and great to use, however I’m confused why I’m not getting the x3 max drift on outbound? Some answers are close but not spot on. For instance one example I tried was: MAX DRIFT = 60/120kts x 15kts wind = 7.5* 7.5 x 3 = 22.5 (23*) Hold inbound CRS 269 Outbound CRS 089 

WIND 150/15KTS 89* + 23 = 112* (app computes 105*)

I had a response from Les providing a full explanation and used the app while trying a hold and worked perfectly will fully recommended to anyone! Thanks Les!

**Developer response:** Sorry for the delay in getting back to you, but the Apple reply was down for about 5 days.
The answer to your questions are given below.

(1) Inbound WCA (IWCA) is given by Sin(IWCA)=(Vwind/VTAS)*Sin(alpha), where alpha is the wind angle relative to the inbound course. Since your inbound course 269 degrees, and the wind is coming from 150 degrees, the value of alpha is 119 degrees on the non-holding side (standard turns). The value of the windspeed ratio is 15/120=0.125. Thus, the value of the IWCA is 6.28 degrees, which is rounded off to 6 deg in the App. Thus, the inbound course would be 263 degrees. Note that in this case the wind is providing a tail wind component. The App shows a negative value, i.e. -6 since the IWCA is pointing toward the non-holding side.

(2) You indicate that you are confused why you are not getting a factor of 3 between the IWCA and the outbound WCA (OWCA). The reason you are not getting 3 is the factor of 3 is a good approximation in two limits. The first being the weak wind case (windspeed ratio less than 0.05), and the second being when the relative wind angle is between 70 and 95 degrees from the inbound course. In this case, the wind is 119 degrees from the inbound course. The value the App computes the OWCA as -16 degrees (again, rounded off to the nearest degree). Therefore, the outbound heading would be 105 degrees.It should be pointed out that the ratio of the OWCA/IWCA on a tailwind component will always be bounded between the value 1 and 3. Wheareas, with a headwind component, the value of the ratio of the OWCA/IWCA is bounded between 3 and (3-wsr)/(1-3*wsr), where wsr=Vwind/VTAS. When the wsr gets close to 1/3, the ratio of the OWCA/IWCA can get large. For example when the wsr=0.3 with a headwind component, the ratio of the OWCA/IWCA is bounded between 3 and 27. 
This debunks nearly all the information on timing and wind correction in the holding pattern for the last 50-60 years. 

The details are in the technical paper. The user guide also shows a few examples of using the factor of 3 as the initial guess for the first circuit and compares it with the exact solution of the holding pattern. 

If you need any additional information, send me an email at lgtech@roadrunner.com

Regards 

Les Glatt

### 5/5 — Not just for hold entry

*2019-02-11*

This corrects heading for winds while in the holding pattern. Very helpful to know, because bad weather is usually why you will be placed in a holding pattern.

## Frequently asked questions about Holding Pattern Computer

### What does the Holding Pattern App do?

The Holding Pattern App provides intuitive, turn-by-turn guidance for complex flight maneuvers, specifically focusing on holding patterns and various entry types like Direct, Teardrop, and Parallel. It analyzes real-time wind patterns and flight dynamics to offer adaptive directions, helping pilots navigate with precision and safety.

### What are the key features of the Holding Pattern App?

Key features include turn-by-turn guidance for Direct, Teardrop, and Parallel entries, real-time wind correction, patented technology for analyzing flight dynamics, a High-Precision Entry (HPE) system, advanced Holding Pattern Solution (HPS) and EFC algorithms, and an innovative Hybrid Parallel/Teardrop entry method.

### Is the Holding Pattern App free to use?

Based on the provided information, the application is available for free. There are no mentions of in-app purchases or subscription models, indicating it is a free application.

### What kind of pilots is this app suitable for?

This app is ideal for both new and experienced pilots. Its intuitive design and detailed guidance aim to elevate flying skills for beginners, while its advanced features and precision focus can benefit seasoned aviators looking to refine their maneuvers.

### How does the app ensure accuracy and safety?

The app utilizes patented technology to analyze wind patterns and flight dynamics, providing real-time, adaptive directions. Features like the High-Precision Entry (HPE) system and advanced algorithms are tested in real aircraft and simulators to minimize pilot workload and maximize path accuracy, ensuring compliance with regulations like FAA airspace.

## Version history (last 5 releases)

### 3.0.2 — 2024-04-18

This update includes bug fixes and performance enhancements.

### 3.0.1 — 2024-02-13

Elevate your flying experience with Version 3.0 of our holding pattern app, now featuring intuitive turn-by-turn directions for entry procedures, enhancing navigational precision and pilot confidence. Coupled with advanced High Precision Entry (HPE) and Holding Pattern Solution (HPS) algorithms, this update significantly reduces pilot workload and optimizes flight path accuracy. The innovative Hybrid Parallel/Teardrop entry method, alongside refined dialog boxes for crucial flight data input, guarantees efficient airspace management and seamless integration into your flying routine.

### 3.0 — 2024-02-13

Elevate your flying experience with Version 3.0 of our holding pattern app, now featuring intuitive turn-by-turn directions for entry procedures, enhancing navigational precision and pilot confidence. Coupled with advanced High Precision Entry (HPE) and Holding Pattern Solution (HPS) algorithms, this update significantly reduces pilot workload and optimizes flight path accuracy. The innovative Hybrid Parallel/Teardrop entry method, alongside refined dialog boxes for crucial flight data input, guarantees efficient airspace management and seamless integration into your flying routine.

### 2.1.1 — 2021-03-07

This is a minor update to version 2.1 which is packed new features, including an option to specify a hold time duration, support for required Mach number, EFC functionality, a new grid layout, and next-turn guidance. Learn more at https://HoldingPattern.com

### 2.1 — 2021-02-25

This update is packed new features, including an option to specify a hold time duration, support for required Mach number, EFC functionality, a new grid layout, and next-turn guidance.
Learn more at https://HoldingPattern.com

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-22.*