AIM ¶ 2-3-5 — Holding Position Markings
AIM 2-3-5 explains runway holding position markings, ILS critical area holds, and taxiway hold lines. Key visuals and ATC phraseology for student pilots.
Holding position markings tell you exactly where to stop on taxiways and runways to avoid conflicts with traffic. Per AIM 2-3-5, the classic runway holding position marking is four yellow lines — two solid, two dashed — extending across the taxiway. The solid lines are on your side when you must hold; the dashed side faces the runway you've just exited.
Key rules to remember:
- At a towered airport, never cross a runway holding position marking without an ATC clearance.
- At a non-towered airport, you must ensure adequate separation from other traffic before crossing.
- When told "hold short of Runway XX," no part of your aircraft may extend beyond the marking.
- You are not clear of the runway after landing until your entire aircraft has crossed the holding position marking.
- ILS critical area holds use two solid lines connected by ladder-like pairs, paired with a red/white sign — stop completely behind it when instructed.
- Taxiway-to-taxiway holds use a single dashed line.
- Surface-painted holding position signs (red with white text) supplement signs where the taxiway is wider than 200 ft.
These markings also define the Runway Safety Area (RSA) boundary — a critical concept for runway incursion avoidance on your checkride.
Five FAA-written-style questions. Instant explanations, every answer cites its source — no account needed.
You are flying VFR in Class E airspace at 8,500 feet MSL during the day. What are your minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements?