VECTORS, DIRECT TO AND HOLDING
Vectors are headings issued to position the aircraft, often for an approach sequence. During vectors, fly the cleared heading and altitude while keeping track of the airport and the intended intercept. The arrival route still drawn on the ND may no longer be the path we are currently cleared to fly. Watch the raw approach information and the distance available for descent and slowing. A heading that initially takes us away from the runway can be part of the sequence; the important work is understanding our present position and being ready for the next clearance without losing the energy picture. [13, PDF pp. 149-158]
DIRECT TO replaces the immediate routing with a path towards the selected fix. Before inserting it, check the exact fix, the clearance and the proposed turn from the aircraft's current position. A familiar name in a list does not establish that it is the right occurrence or gives the intended geometry. After insertion, check the new active leg, waypoint sequencing and actual response. Reassess the vertical plan too: a direct route can remove distance that was going to be used for descent. Learning this connection is more useful than memorising a key sequence while leaving the resulting path unexamined. [26, PDF pp. 113-120] [13, PDF pp. 141-146]
A hold keeps the aircraft in a defined pattern while waiting for the next part of the flight. Review its fix, inbound course, turn direction, altitude, speed and exit intention against the chart and clearance. Continue monitoring fuel and weather while the pattern repeats. Holding may provide time to prepare an approach or reconsider the destination, but it also consumes fuel and leaves an exit to manage. Before leaving, be clear about the next route and descent. Our goal is to turn the extra time into a better-prepared arrival or a workable diversion, with the aircraft's position and remaining options still understood. [13, PDF pp. 147-148]