Definition
A time given by ATC to a pilot holding at a fix or in a holding pattern, indicating when the pilot can expect to receive an onward clearance to continue the flight or, in the event of a lost-communications situation, when to depart the holding fix.
Plain English
The time ATC tells you to expect to be released from holding and cleared to keep going. If you lose radio contact, it's also the time you should leave the hold on your own.
Context Anchor
You will usually see or hear EFC during instrument flight, holding instructions, route delays, or approach delays.
Why Pilots Care
Knowing the EFC time lets pilots manage fuel burn, plan holding endurance, and decide whether a diversion may become necessary.
Intuition Check
EFC is not the next clearance itself. It is the time when you should expect to receive that clearance.
Example Sentence 1
Cleveland Center instructed us to hold east of the VOR at 8,000 with an EFC of 2030.
Example Sentence 2
The pilot reduced power to arrive near the fix close to the assigned EFC.