FMSautopilot

FMSautopilot is a term used to describe the integration between a flight management system (FMS) and an aircraft's autopilot, enabling automatic execution of a route and performance plan prepared by the FMS. In modern cockpits, the FMS computes the optimal flight path, speed schedule, and altitude constraints, while the autopilot system (often including an autothrottle and flight director) physically controls the aircraft to follow the commanded guidance. The combined system provides lateral and vertical guidance with modes such as LNAV and VNAV, and supports additional modes like heading, altitude hold, and instrument approaches.

The architecture typically comprises an FMS with a navigation database and performance data, a flight deck autopilot with guidance and flight director, and sensors and data links that provide position, attitude, and wind information. The FMS generates a flight plan from origin to destination, applying airways, fixes, constraints, fuel and time considerations, and environmental data. The autopilot receives lateral and vertical guidance and automatically adjusts control surfaces and throttle to maintain the commanded path. The system supports console-level monitoring and manual override.

In commercial airliners and business jets, FMSautopilot enables long-range automation, reduces crew workload, and can improve efficiency through optimized routing and fuel use. It is subject to safety requirements and regulatory oversight, with multiple redundancy and fail-safe modes. Operators must ensure data integrity, correct database versions, and appropriate pilot supervision to mitigate potential misconfigurations or system faults.