The primary TACAN marshal holding pattern for helicopters uses which radial relative to the expected final bearing?

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Multiple Choice

The primary TACAN marshal holding pattern for helicopters uses which radial relative to the expected final bearing?

In a TACAN marshal for helicopters, the holding pattern is built around a fixed offset from the direction of the final approach. The outbound leg sits on a radial that forms a 110-degree angle with the expected final bearing. This geometry gives a predictable, safe racetrack around the marshal point and sets up a clean, timely transition onto the final approach. Why this offset works: the 110-degree offset creates a stable pattern that keeps you clear of the final approach path while still allowing a smooth intercept onto the final bearing after the outbound leg. It also accommodates typical helicopter maneuvering and spacing needs at low altitude, making sequencing into the approach more reliable. Other offsets would place the hold in less favorable positions relative to the approach corridor, requiring harder turns or tighter spacing and complicating the join to the final approach.

In a TACAN marshal for helicopters, the holding pattern is built around a fixed offset from the direction of the final approach. The outbound leg sits on a radial that forms a 110-degree angle with the expected final bearing. This geometry gives a predictable, safe racetrack around the marshal point and sets up a clean, timely transition onto the final approach.

Why this offset works: the 110-degree offset creates a stable pattern that keeps you clear of the final approach path while still allowing a smooth intercept onto the final bearing after the outbound leg. It also accommodates typical helicopter maneuvering and spacing needs at low altitude, making sequencing into the approach more reliable. Other offsets would place the hold in less favorable positions relative to the approach corridor, requiring harder turns or tighter spacing and complicating the join to the final approach.

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