Orbit Hold

Orbit Hold

In aviation, "orbit" or “orbit hold" (often used in a VFR context) refers to making a series of 360-degree turns around a specific point, while "hold" or "holding pattern" (used in IFR context) refers to a standardized maneuver around a designated fix to delay aircraft, usually due to traffic or weather.

Orbit (VFR)

• When air traffic control (ATC) instructs an aircraft to "orbit," it means to fly a series of 360-degree turns around a specific location, often a point where the aircraft is waiting to land or for further instructions.
• This is a common practice for Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations.
• It's a way to delay aircraft while maintaining visual separation from other traffic.

Hold (IFR)

• A “hold” or “holding pattern" is a standardized maneuver used in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations to delay aircraft.
• It involves flying a specific pattern (usually a series of legs) around a designated fix (a geographical point).
• Holding patterns are used when an aircraft cannot immediately proceed to its destination due to traffic, weather, or other reasons.
• Holding patterns are designed to ensure safe and efficient aircraft flow.

Key Differences

• Flight Rules: "Orbit" is primarily used in VFR, while "hold" is used in IFR.
• Maneuver: An orbit is a series of 360-degree turns, while a hold is a standardized pattern around a fix.
• Purpose: Both are used to delay aircraft, but "orbit" is more informal and used for visual separation, while "hold" is a structured procedure for instrument operations.