Definition
A holding pattern entry used when the aircraft arrives at the holding fix on a heading that falls within the direct entry sector of the pattern. The pilot crosses the fix and immediately turns in the direction of the holding pattern to begin the outbound leg.
Plain English
If you arrive at the holding point already heading roughly the right way, you just cross the point and turn straight into the holding pattern without any fancy maneuvering.
Context Anchor
Used during instrument flying when entering a published or assigned holding pattern.
Derivation
From the Latin directus, meaning 'straight' or 'made straight.' The name reflects that the aircraft proceeds straight into the pattern with no special positioning maneuver — the simplest of the three standard holding entries.
Why Pilots Care
Correct use keeps the aircraft inside protected airspace and maintains required separation from other traffic.
Intuition Check
Direct does not mean “fly straight through the hold.” It means cross the holding fix and use the straightforward entry method to join the holding pattern.
Example Sentence 1
Approaching the fix from the southwest on a standard right-turn hold to the north, the pilot used a direct entry procedure and turned right onto the outbound leg.
Example Sentence 2
When the holding inbound course was 090 degrees and the aircraft approached from the south, a direct entry was the appropriate choice.