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Autpilot Use in IFR

Objective​

Understand and apply the different autopilot modes, how the autopilot operates, and how it's effective use in an IFR environment.

Timing​

30 minutes

Format​

Overview​

  • Effective use of the autopilot
  • Autopilot Documents
  • Mode Annunciations
  • Lateral Modes
  • Vertical Modes
  • Approach Modes
  • Specific scenarios
    • How to use VNAV Mode
    • Fully-Coupled Go-Around

Elements​

  • IFR Usage of the GPS
  • Objective
    • Understand and apply the different autopilot modes, how the autopilot operates, and how it's effective use in an IFR environment.
  • Timing
    • 30 minutes.
  • Overview
    • Effective use of the autopilot.
    • Autopilot Documents.
    • Mode Annunciations.
    • Lateral Modes.
    • Vertical Modes.
    • Approach Modes.
    • Specific scenarios: How to use VNAV Mode; Fully-Coupled Go-Around.
  • Effective Use of the Autopilot
    • Workload reduction.
    • Allows you to focus your attention elsewhere (ATC, briefing and approach, programming avionics, dealing with passengers).
    • Spatial disorientation mitigation via LVL button.
  • Autopilot Documents
    • Retrofit autopilots are installed per an STC.
    • GFC 500 Pilot's Guide.
    • GFC 500 AFMS (must be in the plane).
  • Panel diagram
    • alt text
  • Mode Annunciations
    • Green indicates an active mode.
    • White indicates an armed mode.
  • Initial Mode Activation
    • Illustrations of initial mode activation cues.
  • Lateral Modes
    • Refer to AFM
  • Vertical Modes
    • Refer to AFM
  • Approach Modes
    • APR follows glideslope and localizer, capturing glideslope only from below.
    • NAV mode can be used for approaches without vertical guidance.
  • How to Use VNAV Mode
    • Ensure altitudes are configured on the GTN.
    • Ensure CDI is in GPS mode.
    • Set altitude preselect to the clearance limit.
    • Press VNAV to arm (white VNAV annunciation).
    • Expect the "Vertical Track" alert one minute before top of descent.
    • Intermediate level-offs present with ALTV annunciation.
    • VNAV will not capture a descending profile unless the selected altitude is valid and at least 75 feet below current altitude.
  • Fully-Coupled Go-Around
    • Set missed approach altitude in the preselect.
    • At the go-around point, press the GA switch twice to engage G/A (7° pitch-up, wings level).
    • Transition to IAS or VS to meet missed approach altitudes.
    • Transition to NAV or HDG to track the missed procedure.
  • Summary
    • Use the autopilot to shed workload in a busy cockpit.
    • Guard against mode confusion, especially PIT and ROL modes.
    • VNAV requires the altitude bug set below current altitude at the final target altitude.
    • Glideslopes only capture from below.
    • G/A mode commands 7° nose-up with ALT mode armed.

References​