Aeronautical Information Manual

AIM 4-3-15

Gate Holding Due to Departure Delays

This reproduces published FAA reference text for study. It does not replace the current official FAA publication or regulation.

Pilots should contact ground control or clearance delivery prior to starting engines as gate hold procedures will be in effect whenever departure delays exceed or are anticipated to exceed 15 minutes. The sequence for departure will be maintained in accordance with initial call up unless modified by flow control restrictions. Pilots should monitor the ground control or clearance delivery frequency for engine startup advisories or new proposed start time if the delay changes.

The tower controller will consider that pilots of turbine-powered aircraft are ready for takeoff when they reach the runway or warm-up block unless advised otherwise.

Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 20, 2026.