Definition
A holding pattern stored in the navigation database of an area navigation (RNAV) or flight management system, associated with a specific waypoint, so that the aircraft will automatically fly the published holding entry, inbound leg, turns, and outbound leg without the pilot having to manually define the pattern's parameters.
Plain English
A holding pattern that is already built into the aircraft's navigation computer. When the pilot selects it, the system flies the loops automatically instead of the pilot having to set up each turn and leg by hand.
Context Anchor
Seen when using modern navigation equipment for instrument flying, especially during holds published on procedures or assigned by air traffic control.
Derivation
Preprogrammed means “programmed beforehand.” Holding pattern means a repeated flight path used to keep an aircraft near a specific place. Together, the phrase means the holding instructions have been put into the navigation equipment before the pilot needs to fly them.
Why Pilots Care
Reduces pilot workload during holding by letting the autopilot manage the pattern, freeing attention for checklists, weather, or communications.
Intuition Check
Preprogrammed does not mean automatically approved or automatically correct. It only means the pattern is already stored in the equipment; the pilot must still confirm it is the right hold to fly.
Example Sentence 1
When ATC issued the holding clearance at LANNA, the pilot loaded the preprogrammed holding pattern from the GPS database and the aircraft flew the entry automatically.
Example Sentence 2
With the holding pattern preprogrammed in the FMS, the aircraft turned outbound automatically after crossing the fix and stayed in the pattern until cleared for the approach.