After arriving over the 15 DME fix on a heading of 350°, what is the correct holding pattern entry procedure?

To determine the appropriate holding pattern entry procedure after arriving over the 15 DME fix while on a heading of 350°, it is essential to understand how holding patterns work in relation to the inbound course and the aircraft's current heading.

In holding pattern entries, the aim is to establish a pattern that allows the aircraft to enter the hold efficiently and safely. The holding pattern is assumed to be designed to hold on a specific radial, which in this case is likely aligned with the inbound course towards the fix.

When entering a hold, the pilot should refer to the angle between the current heading (350°) and the desired inbound course. The direct entry procedure is used when the aircraft approaches the hold from a heading that is within 90 degrees of the inbound course. Since the aircraft is already heading 350°, it is very close to the inbound course, thereby making a direct entry appropriate. In this case, once the pilot reaches the fix, they would proceed directly into the hold without excessive maneuvering; they would follow a simple right turn to establish the outbound leg.

Understanding the relationship between heading and the hold is crucial in selecting a direct entry as opposed to other methods, such as teardrop or parallel entries, which would require additional