# Hold Mode (Fixed Wing)
The Hold flight mode causes the vehicle to loiter (circle) around its current GPS position and maintain its current altitude.
TIP
Hold mode can be used to pause a mission or to help you regain control of a vehicle in an emergency. It is usually activated with a pre-programmed switch.
Note
- This mode requires GPS.
- This mode is automatic - no user intervention is required to control the vehicle.
- RC control switches can be used to change flight modes on any vehicle.
- RC stick movement is ignored.
# Technical Summary
The aircraft circles around the GPS hold position at the current altitude. The vehicle will first ascend to NAV_MIN_LTR_ALT if the mode is engaged below this altitude.
RC stick movement is ignored.
# Parameters
Hold mode behaviour can be configured using the parameters below.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| NAV_LOITER_RAD | The radius of the loiter circle. |
| NAV_MIN_LTR_ALT | Minimum height for loiter mode (vehicle will ascend to this altitude if mode is engaged at a lower altitude). |