Is decreasing the holding time considered a good or bad thing?

Decreasing the holding time can often be considered a negative aspect, particularly in the context of flight operations and safety. Holding time refers to the duration an aircraft is kept in a holding pattern due to various factors such as air traffic flow, weather conditions, or operational delays. Reducing this time could create pressure on pilots to make decisions quickly, possibly compromising thoroughness in checks or safety protocols.

Extended holding times allow for better management of flight operations, giving pilots adequate time to assess their situation, coordinate with air traffic control, and ensure passenger safety. Decreasing this time may lead to rushed maneuvers or insufficient preparation for landing or other critical phases of flight. Therefore, in terms of managing safety and operational efficiency, reducing holding time is generally viewed negatively.