CJ :
From jarops: "
An operator shall ensure that the pre-flight
calculation of usable fuel required for a flight
includes:
(1) Taxy fuel;
(2) Trip fuel;
(3) Reserve fuel consisting of:
(i) Contingency fuel (see IEM OPS
1.255(c)(3)(i));
(ii) Alternate fuel, if a destination
alternate is required. (This does not
preclude selection of the departure
aerodrome as the destination alternate);
(iii) Final reserve fuel; and
(iv) Additional fuel, if required by
the type of operation (e.g. ETOPS); and
(4) Extra fuel if required by the
commander."
regarding final reserve:"
1.5 Final reserve fuel, which should be:
a. For aeroplanes with reciprocating engines, fuel to fly for 45 minutes; or
b. For aeroplanes with turbine power units, fuel to fly for 30 minutes at holding speed at 1 500 ft
(450 m) above aerodrome elevation in standard conditions, calculated with the estimated mass on arrival at
the alternate or the destination, when no alternate is required." (Jarops1-section2)
So,CJ ,I think it's not a confusion between final reserve and fuel to hold for 30 min,cause this is what it is.Fuel to hold for 30 min at 1500'.(or to fly at holding speed for 30 min).
Indeed,you won't hold for 30 min,untill tanks are dry,but you have to know the max amount of time you'll have ,which is less than 30 min,considering gliding after that..
, so a MAYDAY when arriving at alternate ,with just final reserve,is compulsory!