Standard rate turns, IFR holding patterns, and autopilot

Discussion Hub Real-life Aviation
1

So I’m trying to learn holding patterns in basic steam gauge planes like the 152. I’m a bit confused by the turn rate when using AP. As far as I can tell there is nothing to set the turn rate of the autopilot (at least in the sim). I tested with the 152, and the AP completed a full 360 turn in about 1:30, which is a fair bit faster than the standard rate of 2min. A 180 turn took about 50secs, which was closer, and perhaps good enough?

What are your thoughts?

2

Handfly your holding, no AP needed in a 152 :wink: Bank Angle = TAS/10 + 7, e.g. 16° at 90kt TAS (not IAS!).

IRL in my area, if a holding is needed, we fly circles, no holding patterns (but VFR not IFR). ATC advises a three-sixty to the left/right to get 2min of holding or orbit left/right for holding until further notice.