What altitude must an aircraft reach before it can re-enter the holding pattern after a missed approach?

To successfully re-enter a holding pattern after a missed approach, an aircraft typically needs to reach a minimum altitude that is specified in the missed approach procedure. In many cases, this minimum altitude is designed to ensure safe separation from terrain and other air traffic, and varies based on the specific approach being executed and the aerodrome regulations in place.

The correct altitude at which an aircraft can re-enter holding is often influenced by the design of the approach and the associated missed approach procedures, which are carefully formulated to secure safety. Reaching the specific altitude allows the aircraft to manage its flight path and maintain necessary separation, typically aligned with standard ATC procedures and guidelines.

While specific altitudes such as 10,000 feet, FL350, or FL250 may or may not be valid for certain scenarios, 14,000 feet aligns with more standard procedures seen in aviation handling of missed approaches, particularly within the context of air traffic control managing flight flow in busy airspaces.

Safety regulations dictate that this altitude provides adequate vertical separation from potential hazards, which is critical during the transition from a missed approach to a holding pattern. This consideration ensures that the aircraft is operating in a safe airspace before re-engaging its navigation to holding procedures.