Definition
The highest indicated airspeed at which an aircraft may be flown while in a holding pattern, as published by ICAO and adopted by the FAA. The limit varies by altitude band: 200 KIAS at or below 6,000 feet MSL, 230 KIAS from above 6,000 to 14,000 feet MSL, and 265 KIAS above 14,000 feet MSL. Lower limits apply at certain holding patterns where shown on the chart, and higher limits apply for some military and turbojet operations.
Plain English
The fastest speed you are allowed to fly while circling in a holding pattern. The exact number depends on how high you are.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument holding procedures, especially when planning or entering a hold and checking the speed limits that apply to that pattern.
Derivation
Maximum, from Latin maximus meaning greatest. Holding describes flying a fixed racetrack pattern to wait. Together, the term names the speed ceiling that keeps the racetrack pattern small enough to stay inside its protected airspace.
Why Pilots Care
Exceeding the limit increases turn radius and may cause the aircraft to leave protected airspace.
Intuition Check
Maximum does not mean the speed you should aim for. It means the upper limit you must not exceed while holding.
Example Sentence 1
Cleared to hold at 8,000 feet, the pilot slowed to 220 knots to stay within the maximum holding airspeed for that altitude band.
Example Sentence 2
At FL 180 the crew confirmed the MHA before entering the published hold.