Halo - for your info. I know of at least three major long haul carriers who, as a part of their fuel policy, allow the pilot to make decisions based on number of runways available, weather above certain minima at ETA, no anticipated delays on arrival in the TMA, (but including the 20 mins. at LHR), etc. etc. and if every box gets a tick then the aircraft will continue to destination, this decision will be taken at the point at which a diversion would otherwise be required in order to have sufficient fuel to reach the alternate, hold and land.. .Obviously some companies are juggling with the diversion to alternate and holding part of that fuel and an unexpected hold over twenty minutes will certainly put the cat amongst the pigeons.. .It comes down to decision making at the time and place in question.. . . . <small>[ 03 March 2002, 22:37: Message edited by: G.Khan ]</small>