Holding area
Example: 2000 ft QNH IAS = 230 kt Outbound timing (no wind) = 1 min.
Operational limitations result in a certain amount of airspace to be protected. The exact dimensions of the area are variable. They depend upon the restrictions of the holding (altitude, outbound timing, VOR or NDB, DME, etc.). The basic shape is as shown above.
Obstacle clearance is 1000 ft (2000 ft over mountainous terrain). In a buffer area of 5 NM around the holding area obstacle clearance gradually reduces to zero.
Source: ICAO
See also:
Approaching Holding fix
Entry into the Holding
Holding pattern shape and terminology
Standard limitations for Speed, Rate of turn and Timing (Holding)
Flying the Holding pattern – Wind correction
Leaving the Holding pattern
Protected airspace (Holding)