What factors determine the size of the protected airspace in a holding pattern?

In determining the size of the protected airspace in a holding pattern, speed and altitude are the critical factors. The holding pattern is designed to accommodate the aircraft's maneuverability and ensure safety while maintaining separation from other traffic and terrain.

The altitude at which an aircraft is flying affects the dimensions of the holding pattern. Typically, at higher altitudes, the holding pattern's radius and the required buffer zone around the aircraft increase to account for greater potential lateral deviation. Conversely, the speed of the aircraft influences how tightly it can turn and maintain its trajectory within the pattern. Faster aircraft require larger radii to ensure that they remain within safe operational limits during their turns.

Together, speed and altitude directly correlate with the size of the protected airspace, making it essential to account for both when designing and implementing holding patterns. This ensures that aircraft can safely navigate and maintain the required separation in the airspace.