Definition
The procedure used to transition from the inbound course onto a holding pattern. Three standard entry methods exist — direct, parallel, and teardrop — and the correct one is determined by the aircraft's heading relative to the holding course as it crosses the holding fix.
Plain English
The way a pilot flies into a holding pattern for the first time. Depending on the direction the aircraft is coming from, one of three set procedures is used to get established in the racetrack-shaped pattern.
Context Anchor
Seen during instrument flying when a pilot is assigned or expects to fly a hold, including published holds, missed approach holds, and air traffic control holding clearances.
Derivation
“Holding” in aviation means keeping the aircraft in a defined area while waiting. “Pattern” refers to the repeated path flown, and “entry” means the way the aircraft joins that path. Together, the term means the specific way an aircraft enters the repeated holding path.
Why Pilots Care
Correct entry keeps the aircraft inside protected airspace, maintains proper timing, and satisfies ATC clearance without extra maneuvering.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a holding pattern entry as just any turn into the hold. It is a standard joining method chosen from the direction you arrive.
Example Sentence 1
Cleared to hold at the VOR, the pilot calculated a teardrop entry based on the aircraft's heading at the fix.
Example Sentence 2
On the parallel entry the aircraft flew outbound on the reciprocal heading for one minute before turning back to intercept the inbound leg.