Quote:
Originally Posted by ckissick
Why is it possible to set the auto pilot to an elevation of 100 feet when the ground below you is at a higher elevation? It seems like it should be able to adjust to avoid a crash. Of course, the pilot could have just switched to manual. Still...
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Charlie,
I'm not a pilot, but here's an example. Glasgow airport. If you are approaching from the north, you are coming in over hills. If you wish to use the automated flight controls, you would enter the numbers you are seeking (altitude and heading ) while you are over the hills and proceeding on another heading. The aircraft does not instantaneously take you from your current altitude to the one you select, there is a descent rate which can be input or defaulted. By the time it reaches the newly set altitude, you are in the Clyde Valley.
A few months ago, someone posted a link to a uTube video which shows the pilot of a Lufthansa A380 entering the altitudes and headings in response to the tower's instructions. It is worth a watch.
Best
Les