Definition
A specific waypoint, defined on an RNAV or GPS instrument approach procedure, at which the aircraft is to hold after executing a missed approach. It marks the end of the missed approach track and the location around which the holding pattern is flown.
Plain English
It is the point on a GPS-based approach where you go to hold if the approach is abandoned. Once you reach it, you fly a holding pattern there until further instructions or another approach attempt.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts and in missed approach instructions, especially when the missed approach ends with a hold at a named point.
Derivation
Waypoint combines “way,” meaning a path or route, with “point,” meaning a marked position. In aviation, it means a specific navigation position along a route. Here, it is the specific point used for holding after a missed approach.
Why Pilots Care
It gives pilots a known, protected location to hold while awaiting ATC clearance or sequencing.
Grounding Statement
If the approach cannot be completed, the missed approach instructions lead you to this waypoint so the aircraft has a defined place to wait safely.
Intuition Check
This is not the point where you decide to go missed. It is the point where the missed approach route ends and the holding pattern begins.
Example Sentence 1
After the go-around, the crew flew the published missed approach track direct to the missed approach holding waypoint and entered the hold.
Example Sentence 2
ATC instructed the aircraft to hold at the missed approach holding waypoint until the traffic on the runway cleared.