What is the maximum indicated airspeed for civil aircraft while holding at 5,000 feet?

The maximum indicated airspeed for civil aircraft while holding at 5,000 feet is 200 knots. This is defined in the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) and the respective guidance documents that dictate aircraft operations in holding patterns.

Holding patterns are designed to maintain safety and efficiency in air traffic management, especially in congested airspace or during conditions where aircraft must be kept in a holding pattern for a period of time, such as when waiting for landing clearance. The specified airspeed limits help ensure that aircraft can maintain proper separation from one another and have sufficient control authority while maneuvering in these established patterns.

At lower altitudes, such as 5,000 feet, a 200-knot limit helps to ensure that aircraft can handle their speeds adequately while also considering their performance characteristics, such as climb rates and descent capabilities. This limit provides a standardized airspeed that is manageable for most commercial aviation operations, aligning with operational safety criteria for engaging in holding procedures.