What altitude difference is maintained when a wingman enters a holding pattern?

The appropriate altitude difference maintained when a wingman enters a holding pattern is ideally 1,000 feet above the lead's altitude. This practice is intended to provide safe vertical separation between the lead aircraft and its wingman, minimizing the risk of collision and allowing for easier management of both aircraft's operations within the holding pattern.

In typical flying operations, especially in military aviation, maintaining altitude separation helps ensure that the wingman can observe the lead and perform necessary maneuvers without compromising safety. This altitude sequencing is a standard practice that allows for a clearer delineation of roles and responsibilities during holding, which is crucial for maintaining formation integrity and operational effectiveness during tactical missions.

Other altitude variations, such as 2,000 feet, 500 feet, or 1,500 feet, do not conform to standard operating procedures for wingmen in holding patterns and could complicate formation flying and increase the risk of misunderstandings regarding positioning.