What does the term "holding" describe in aviation?

The term "holding" in aviation specifically refers to a situation where an aircraft is in a specified flight pattern while waiting for permission to land, take off, or access an available gate. This typically occurs when air traffic control determines that a flight cannot proceed directly to its destination due to traffic congestion, weather conditions, or other operational reasons.

In a holding pattern, the aircraft will fly in a loop or racetrack-shaped flight path, maintaining a specific altitude until instructed by air traffic control to continue on to its landing or takeoff procedure. This ensures safe separation between aircraft, allowing for efficient traffic management in busy airspace.

The other options describe scenarios in aviation but do not accurately define "holding." A canceled flight refers to a different operational status, while delays due to weather signify that a flight is postponed rather than in a holding procedure. Lastly, a flight that has already landed does not involve waiting in a defined pattern like "holding" does.