AIM ¶ 4-3-15 — Gate Holding Procedures
AIM 4-3-15 explains gate hold procedures when departure delays exceed 15 minutes. Learn engine start advisories and departure sequencing for your checkride.
In Plain English
AIM 4-3-15 describes gate hold procedures, which ATC uses to keep aircraft at the gate (engines off) when departure delays are expected to exceed 15 minutes. This saves fuel and reduces congestion on taxiways.
Key points for pilots:
- Contact ground control or clearance delivery before starting engines — don't fire up the turbines and then ask for clearance when a delay is in effect.
- Departure sequence is based on your initial call-up time, not engine start time, unless flow control restrictions change it. Calling early preserves your place in line.
- Monitor the assigned frequency for engine startup advisories or revised proposed start times.
- For turbine-powered aircraft, the tower assumes you're ready for takeoff when you reach the runway or warm-up block unless you tell them otherwise.
Operationally, this matters because trying to start engines without checking in can put you out of sequence, waste fuel idling on the ramp, and create unnecessary radio congestion. This is a recommended procedure in the AIM, not a regulation, but it's how the system is designed to work efficiently.
AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 4-3-154-3-15. 4-3-15. Gate Holding Due to Departure Delays
Pilots should contact ground control or clearance delivery prior to starting engines as gate hold procedures will be in effect whenever departure delays exceed or are anticipated to exceed 15 minutes. The sequence for departure will be maintained in accordance with initial call up unless modified by flow control restrictions. Pilots should monitor the ground control or clearance delivery frequency for engine startup advisories or new proposed start time if the delay changes. The tower controller will consider that pilots of turbine-powered aircraft are ready for takeoff when they reach the runway or warm-up block unless advised otherwise.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1When are gate hold procedures in effect, and who should you contact before starting engines?
Per AIM 4-3-15, gate hold procedures are in effect whenever departure delays exceed or are anticipated to exceed 15 minutes. Pilots should contact ground control or clearance delivery prior to starting engines.
Q2How is the departure sequence determined under gate hold procedures?
Per AIM 4-3-15, the sequence for departure is maintained in accordance with the initial call-up, unless modified by flow control restrictions. So calling early holds your place in line.
Q3When does the tower controller consider a turbine-powered aircraft ready for takeoff?
Per AIM 4-3-15, the tower controller will consider pilots of turbine-powered aircraft ready for takeoff when they reach the runway or warm-up block, unless advised otherwise by the pilot.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 4