COLIMATA F/A-18F Rhino Manual page 38

UFCD – Autopilot menu
AP Autopilot Menu:
In this menu you can not only engage and disengage all AP functions but also set there
values or hit and emergency AP off button.
AP MAIN:
If one of the autopilot functions is active a green square is displayed on the top left of this
button (As it is on every AP function button that is active). In that case if you hit AP MAIN
all AP functions are switched off and the aircraft turns back to full manual control.
A THR → Autothrottle:
This AP function sets the thrust of the engines to reach and hold the set speed value.
This speed value is displayed on the A THR button.
ALT H:
This AP function induces a slow climb or descend to the set altitude. Then this ALT is held.
The currently set altitude is displayed on the ALT H button.
When ALT H is engaged, A THR is engaged automatically. This shall assure that there is
enough thrust for an climb. You can switch A THR off manually but keep in mind to provide
the thrust necessary MANUALLY; otherwise a stall could happen if the aircraft is pulling up
without energy.
HDG H → Heading hold:
This AP function induces a slow turn versus the set heading. Then this HDG is held. The
currently set heading is displayed on the HDG H button. HDG H and W LVL can not be
active at the same time.
W LVL → Wings Leveled:
This AP function keeps the wings leveled and also the longitudinal axis horizontal.
HDG H and W LVL can not be active at the same time.
You can set the AP values on the ground but you CAN NOT start the AP functions on the
ground (blow 6ft RADAR ALT) . This is a safety feature that prevents for example the
ignition of the afterburners while parking, if the "A THR" is clicked by accident. Furthermore
it is handy after landing when "A THR" disengages itself. One point less to worry in this
critical situation. Just keep in mind that after carrier landings you need to apply full throttle
manually to make sure to have enough power if the cable is not captured correctly.
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