A digital or physical interface within a flight simulation environment provides automated aircraft control. This interface replicates the functionality found in real-world aircraft, allowing users to manage various flight parameters such as altitude, heading, speed, and vertical speed. A virtual representation might involve clickable buttons and adjustable dials displayed on a computer screen, while a physical version could consist of dedicated hardware connected to the simulation software. For instance, a user might engage altitude hold to maintain a specific flight level, relieving them from constant manual adjustments.
Automated flight control systems offer significant advantages in simulated aviation. They enable pilots to practice complex procedures, manage demanding flight phases, and familiarize themselves with automated systems commonly used in modern aircraft. This capability proves especially valuable for training scenarios involving long-haul flights or challenging weather conditions. Historically, the evolution of these interfaces has mirrored advancements in real-world avionics, reflecting an ongoing effort to provide increasingly realistic and sophisticated training environments.
