Flying a coupled approach often is easier, but it does present other challenges. If you’re not prepared for them, may want to do this yourself.

By Thomas P. Turner

We admit it: The modern autopilot is a marvelous technological innovation, capable of smoothly flying even antique airplanes better than most of us on our best days. Especially when operating in the en route environment, it’s usually on, and doing its thing so we can concentrate on the scenery. It’s also useful in other flight modes, of course, especially in the clag. Letting George do it frees our mental bandwidth for chart folding, communicating with ATC and planning the upcoming approach to minimums. …