What altitude must a holding pattern be established below to adhere to a 1-minute inbound leg timing?

To achieve a 1-minute inbound leg timing for a holding pattern, the altitude at which the holding pattern is established should be at or below 14,000 feet. This standard is based on the guidelines provided by the FAA, which state that a holding pattern is designed to ensure that aircraft can maintain a consistent time for the inbound leg, allowing for effective spacing and sequencing in air traffic operations.

At altitudes above 14,000 feet, the airspeed generally increases, which can lead to longer inbound leg times due to the impact of wind and other factors. Therefore, a holding pattern established at or below 14,000 feet has a higher likelihood of resulting in a 1-minute inbound leg, as the aircraft will typically be flying at a slower airspeed, allowing pilots to maintain better control and timing during the maneuver. Hence, establishing a holding pattern below this altitude is essential for adherence to the 1-minute timing requirement.