Okay, what is engine-out automation? It includes automatic propeller feathering and rudder boost. New innovations are being introduced that extend this automation into more twin-engine aircraft (see sidebar Latest Trends). While engine-out automation is usually provided only as an aid, the automation may be required to meet the aircraft certification requirements. As with other cockpit automation, it is a large benefit in most cases. However, in certain circumstances, the automation might add to the surprise factor and cause confusion. Let’s dig into the background of these systems and their potential benefits, then explore a case when it could add confusion.
History
Aircraft propellers that could be feathered in flight go back to the 1930s. Hamilton Standard and Curtis Wright both produced full-feathering propellers. Hamilton Standard’s “Hydromatic” was as the name implies a hydraulically activated system. Electric motors drove Curtis Wright’s feathering system. While the flight crew could feather the propeller from the cockpit, it was not until the early 1950s that manufacturers incorporated systems that automatically feathered the propeller with an engine failure. This feature was first introduced on the Martin 4-0-4.
