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If you've flown an airplane with an autopilot, here are some of the best times to use it.
If you don't feel comfortable using all the capabilities of your autopilot, practice its use during daytime VFR conditions. If you can, bring an experienced pilot with you to give you some tips.
Autopilots are great tools, but they can lead to dangerous situations when you don't understand how to use them properly.
If you're flying a complex procedure, consider using the autopilot to help meet altitude and speed restrictions. This allows you more time to cross-reference your flight path with the text/graphical depiction of the procedure.
When used correctly, autopilots help you manage a task saturated environment. If you need to handle other cockpit tasks or communications, use the autopilot to ensure you're maintaining altitude and desired track.
Holding for long periods of time is never fun. Use the autopilot to take some of the repetitive flying off of your shoulders. Plus, with your hands free, you'll be able to better manage approach checklists and briefings.
At high altitudes, aircraft are difficult to hand fly. Using the autopilot takes the tedious work of maintain altitude off your hands, so you can focus on monitoring systems and communicating with ATC.
If you haven't performed one in awhile, fly an autopilot coupled instrument approach. It's a great way to stay current and proficient, especially if you plan to use it in IMC.
Some emergencies aren't flight-control related at all. It may be a passenger, crew member, cargo, or communications emergency. Engaging the autopilot is one way to reduce your workload, so you can focus on problem-solving.
While they shouldn't be relied on, autopilot systems are a important tools to utilize when you fly. How do you like to use your autopilot? Tell us in the comments below.