When slowing for a hold, you should slow within how many minutes of the fix?

• A. One minute
• B. Three minutes
• C. Five minutes
• D. Ten minutes

Answer: (B)

Preparing for a hold is about getting to the correct holding speed at the right distance from the fix so you can enter smoothly and stay within the procedure’s limits. You should slow to holding speed within about three minutes of reaching the fix. This timing gives you enough distance to complete the deceleration and configure the airplane without rushing as you approach the hold, while still avoiding getting too slow too close to the fix. Slowing earlier than three minutes can waste energy or put you at the wrong speed too far from the entry, while slowing later than three minutes risks an abrupt, unstable transition into the hold as you near the fix.