#Automatic flight control system install#
#Automatic flight control system manual#

As mentioned in the Leonardo Helicopters video 2019 (see the 2nd part of this article), the pilot is (provides) the stability! Un-stabilised helicopters require continuous pilot control inputs and good external visual cues to maintain stabilised flight. Reducing accidents in light helicopters is therefore the primary focus of the EASA Rotorcraft Safety Roadmap. These helicopters are predominately used for private flight, training or aerial work, where most fatal accidents occur.

#Automatic flight control system install#

Most light single engine helicopters (for instance R22, R44, AS350 and H130, H135/EC135, Bell 206) don’t have automation, although it is possible as an option to install an AFCS upper mode 2- or 3-axis in some aircraft types. It is important that pilots are aware about the different levels of automation that are relevant to their daily flying. Most light single engine helicopters fly without automation systems while modern medium and large helicopters are designed to be flown using an Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) upper modes 4-axis to enhance safety and reduce pilot workload.

#Automatic flight control system manual#

Some manufacturers also publish operational documents such as Flight Operational Briefing Notes (FOBN) and Flight Crew Operating Manual (FCOM) to address the use of the aircraft and of automation for specific missions such as Offshore, Search and Rescue (SAR), and Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) operations.

The advent of EASA Operational Suitability Data (OSD) has gone a long way in addressing the Training Areas of Special Emphasis (TASEs) that need to be addressed in specific type rating training. The rapid advances in technology over the last 30 years means that such systems have developed significant capabilities.Īs operation and management of automation requires individual and flight crew (2 pilot operations) competences, it is important that training and checking practices must keep pace with these continuous technological advances. This has driven the need for safety promotion in this area.īased on the EHEST Leaflet HE9 Automation and Flight Path Management, this article reviews the basics of rotorcraft automation and provides a list of principles for optimal use of automation for flight path management.įor many years, helicopter manufacturers have used automation in the form of stability augmentation and attitude retention in assisting crews in reducing manual flying workload. However, over recent years there have been incidents and accidents in the helicopter community where complex flight control systems and improper management of automation have been significant factors. When used correctly, it makes it easier to control the helicopter and increases the precision of routine procedures to reduce the opportunity for errors and the associated risks to the safety of the flight. This article and the associated video from Leonardo Helicopters provides more information on the different types of automation and what this means for pilots.Īutomation has contributed substantially to the sustained improvement of flight safety in the helicopter community. Flight crew must be trained, have the necessary competences and use adequate procedures to best use this valuable resource.

However, this doesn’t come without challenges. Over the years helicopter manufacturers have introduced more automation to assist crews to reduce the workload of manual flying.