For non-precision approaches, which automation level should be used?

For non-precision approaches, which automation level should be used?

• A. Use only that level of automation that assists in tracking, descent management and speed control.
• B. Use all automation until configured for landing.
• C. Fly manual throughout.
• D. Enable autopilot only for lateral guidance.

Answer: (A)

On a non-precision approach, you still need to manage the aircraft’s position, altitude, and speed without relying on a published vertical guidance path. The best use of automation is to support those exact tasks: keep you on the final approach course, help control your descent profile, and regulate speed. This approach reduces workload and maintains your ability to intervene for a safe landing if needed, rather than letting automation fly the entire approach to a possible landing without a vertical cue. Using automation for everything until landing is not appropriate here because non-precision approaches don’t provide a vertical descent path to follow automatically. Flying manual throughout ignores the efficiency and precision that automation can offer for tracking and speed. Limiting autopilot to lateral guidance only leaves you to manage descent and speed manually, which can increase workload and risk for maintaining the required profile.

On a non-precision approach, you still need to manage the aircraft’s position, altitude, and speed without relying on a published vertical guidance path. The best use of automation is to support those exact tasks: keep you on the final approach course, help control your descent profile, and regulate speed. This approach reduces workload and maintains your ability to intervene for a safe landing if needed, rather than letting automation fly the entire approach to a possible landing without a vertical cue.

Using automation for everything until landing is not appropriate here because non-precision approaches don’t provide a vertical descent path to follow automatically. Flying manual throughout ignores the efficiency and precision that automation can offer for tracking and speed. Limiting autopilot to lateral guidance only leaves you to manage descent and speed manually, which can increase workload and risk for maintaining the required profile.