We admit it: The modern autopilot is a marvelous technological innovation, capable of smoothly flying even antique airplanes better than most of us on our best days. Especially when operating in the en route environment, its usually on, and doing its thing so we can concentrate on the scenery. Its also useful in other flight modes, of course, especially in the clag. 288
Five Reasons To Uncouple Your Approach
We admit it: The modern autopilot is a marvelous technological innovation, capable of smoothly flying even antique airplanes better than most of us on our best days. Especially when operating in the en route environment, its usually on, and doing its thing so we can concentrate on the scenery. Its also useful in other flight modes, of course, especially in the clag. Letting George do it frees our mental bandwidth for chart folding, communicating with ATC and planning the upcoming approach to minimums.
Key Takeaways:
- Over-reliance on autopilots for instrument approaches, especially to lower minimums than a pilot can hand-fly, is dangerous due to potential system failures requiring immediate manual takeover.
- Using autopilots frequently can degrade a pilot's hand-flying proficiency and lead to complacency, making them ill-prepared for unexpected disconnections or partial-panel situations.
- Pilots must be intimately familiar with their autopilot system's operation, limitations, and how it interfaces with navigation, as autopilots typically do not fly missed approaches and often require manual intervention in critical phases.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
