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High-End Autopilots

As an airplane owner, I quietly find myself looking at each new device both as an editor and as a potential buyer. Of course, most owners find new gadgets attractive, but when you actually get to try these things out, use them in action, well, I often find it more difficult than others to resist. So, flying these new autopilots in my aircraft type left me wanting one right away even though my autopilot works perfectly. Are you feeling my pain yet? Nah, I didnt think so…

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article compares two modern digital autopilots, the S-TEC 3100 and Garmin GFC 600, for high-performance piston aircraft like the Cessna 340, noting their similar core capabilities for navigation tracking, attitude-based control, and safety features.
  • Key feature differences include the Garmin GFC 600 offering generally "tighter" control, a "Nanny mode" for envelope protection, fully implemented VNAV, and coupled go-around capability, while the S-TEC 3100 allows for external AHRS redundancy.
  • For aircraft with an existing S-TEC autopilot, the 3100 offers significant cost savings by reusing existing servos, making it a clear choice. For new installations, the GFC 600, despite a higher cost, is recommended for its enhanced features and perceived tighter control.
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Many pilots think that being an editor or journalist in aviation is a dream job. And, in many ways they’re right. We often get the inside track on FAA activities; we can go to all the shows as part of the job; we fly a lot of GA for business; and we get to play with all the latest toys from the manufacturers.

As an airplane owner, I quietly find myself looking at each new device both as an editor and as a potential buyer. Of course, most owners find new gadgets attractive, but when you actually get to try these things out, use them in action, well, I often find it more difficult than others to resist. So, flying these new autopilots in my aircraft type left me wanting one right away even though my autopilot works perfectly. Are you feeling my pain yet? Nah, I didn’t think so…

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