Airplane Autopilots - The Most Overused & Underused System in General Aviation

Much has been written about the potential overuse of Autopilots, resulting in the atrophy of hand flying skills. On the other side of the coin, we also read about pilots who experience a sudden increased workload, but fail to leverage the autopilot, translating to a tragic and unnecessary accident.
Of course the solution to the problem is to practice and become proficient at both. This episode was meant to inform non-pilots about the power of the autopilot. Turns out all of us can use a refresher.
How do you stay sharp? Leave your comments below.
Blue Skies & Tailwinds!

[@ghoflyer]

Are you going to upload more on the cause of your engine failure?

[@pfflying6275]

That's the plan. There are multiple parties involved and need to let the process run its course.

[@therustypilot3452]

I talked about this today and hand flew a couple of hours. I feel you lose touch by always using it.

[@pfflying6275]

I obviously agree. When coming into the busy Bravo, and get commands to turn, descend, look for traffic, and get an approach clearance, I feel a sense of accomplishment and of confidence when successfully hand flying it all.

[@Q1776Q]

I've seen the movie 'Airplane' many, many times...I think I know all about the Otto pilot. 🤣

[@pfflying6275]

Love that movie. Especially after Julie inflates Otto and he has a cigarette in his mouth.

[@Q1776Q]

@@pfflying6275 🤣🤣🤣