When you get a hold, what should you tell dispatch?

• A. Speed
• B. Altitude
• C. Fuel
• D. EFC time

Answer: (D)

When you’re in a hold, the crucial communication is your estimated time to receive the next clearance. That’s your EFC time—Expect Further Clearance. Sharing this time with dispatch lets ATC know when you’ll be ready for the next instruction, helping them sequence traffic and manage the hold efficiently.

Speed and altitude are important for staying within the hold’s restrictions, and fuel is always a consideration, but they’re not the specific coordination piece you’re expected to convey in this moment. The standard practice is to report your EFC time to indicate when you expect to be cleared again.