What is the width of the buffer area of a holding pattern?

The correct choice indicates that the width of the buffer area for a holding pattern is 5 nautical miles. This buffer area is an important aspect of air traffic management, facilitating safe separation for aircraft in a holding pattern. By standardizing the width of this buffer zone, controllers ensure that aircraft can safely maintain their prescribed flight paths while also accommodating any necessary deviations caused by weather, traffic, or other operational considerations.

A 5 nautical mile width creates a sufficient margin for separation, reducing the risk of conflicts between aircraft holdings or passing traffic. This standard is established based on operational safety protocols and is widely recognized in the aviation industry.

Other options suggest different widths, which are either too small or too large, and do not align with established practices for holding patterns as recognized by aviation regulatory bodies.