According to ACA rules of thumb, what is the typical holding distance for high altitude operations?

• A. 5 NM by 2 NM
• B. 15 NM by 7 NM
• C. 20 NM by 10 NM
• D. 10 NM by 5 NM

Answer: (D)

High altitude holding patterns require more airspace to maintain separation and accommodate winds and maneuvering. In ACA rules of thumb, a standard box hold is about 10 NM along the legs and 5 NM across, forming a 10-by-5 NM area. This size gives enough room for drift, speed changes, and safe deconfliction with other assets while you set up for the next action. Smaller holds (like 5-by-2 NM) are typical at lower altitude, and much larger holds would waste airspace unless conditions demand it. So the typical holding distance for high altitude operations is 10 NM by 5 NM.