A reader, a helo pilot from the U.S. Coast Guard, wrote to ask some interesting questions. It seems they'd just had an FMS upgrade that enables them to fly RNAV (GPS) approaches. All the approach holds that are course reversals (hold in lieu of procedure turn, HILPT) are shown with four-nautical- mile legs. He asked if it is required to fly the entire leg length. The e-mail discussion evolved to ask if a charted hold, such as a missed approach hold, also had mandatory leg lengths. These probing questions prompted some interesting virtual discussions at IFR. Then, just as we were preparing this article, another helo-pilot reader sent us an FAA Legal interpretation mucking with our reasoning.
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