An autopilot is a system used to control the path of an aircraft, marine craft or spacecraft without requiring constant manual control by a human operator.
An Autopilot is a system used in aerospace vehicles such as aircraft and spacecraft to control and navigate the vehicle without constant input from a human operator. Autopilot systems use a combination of sensors, navigation systems, and control algorithms to maintain a specific flight path, altitude, and speed, as well as to perform other tasks such as takeoff, landing, and emergency maneuvers.
Examples of Autopilot functions include:
- Maintaining a specific altitude and heading
- Following a pre-programmed flight plan
- Automating takeoff and landing procedures
- Responding to system failures and emergency situations
- Assisted manual flight where the pilot can control the aircraft but the Autopilot will help him with maintaining the aircraft in a specific attitude or altitude.
Examples of Autopilot systems are found in commercial and military aircraft, as well as in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and spacecraft. Many modern commercial airliners use some form of Autopilot, and many of them rely on a combination of Autopilot and Fly-by-Wire systems, which uses electronic signals instead of mechanical linkages to control the aircraft's movements. Additionally, autonomous aircrafts such as drones, also use Autopilot systems to fly.