What is the holding speed below 15,000 feet with 0 flaps?

• A. VREF + 30 knots
• B. VREF
• C. V2
• D. VREF + 40 knots

Answer: (A)

In a holding pattern, speeds are set based on what configuration you’re in and your altitude to give you enough energy and stall margin for turns. When you’re in the clean configuration (no flaps) and you’re below 15,000 feet, the standard target is VREF plus 30 knots. VREF is the reference landing approach speed, which is tied to the stall characteristics in the landing configuration. Since you’re not in that configuration, you need a bit more airspeed to keep a comfortable margin above stall while you bank and maneuver in the hold. Adding 30 knots gives a safe balance: not too slow to risk a stall during turns, and not so fast that you waste performance or complicate the later approach.

VREF alone would be too slow for reliable holding with turns in the clean configuration, and VREF plus 40 knots is faster than the standard value for below 15,000 feet. V2 is a takeoff speed and isn’t used for holding patterns.