Holding Pattern

Why Commercial Flights Circle Above Airports Before Landing for Up to an Hour

Watching an aircraft circle repeatedly just a few miles from its destination can be frustrating for passengers, especially when the airport appears to be within touching distance. Flight tracking apps often make the situation look even more puzzling, showing an airliner flying what appears to be the same loop over and over again. These loops are known as holding patterns, and they remain one of the most effective tools available to air traffic controllers for controlling inbound aircraft at an airport.