When entering a hold while enroute, is a radio call required?

When entering a hold while enroute, a radio call is important, particularly for maintaining communication and situational awareness with Air Traffic Control (ATC). The correct answer emphasizes the necessity of providing time and altitude information during this communication. This practice helps ATC keep track of your position and ensures that other aircraft are aware of your situation, especially if you are holding due to traffic or weather conditions.

Providing time and altitude data during the call aids ATC in effectively managing airspace and adjusting as necessary based on your ongoing situation. This is crucial for safety and proper separation from other aircraft.

While other options suggest that a call may not be necessary or is only required under specific conditions, they do not account for the overall importance of maintaining communication with ATC when entering a holding pattern. Keeping ATC informed contributes to the safety and efficiency of flight operations.