Yes, you can and are often expected to use the autopilot on an IFR checkride, particularly if the aircraft is equipped with one. This reflects the reality of modern instrument flight, where autopilots are an integral tool for workload management and precision.
Expectations for Autopilot Use During the Checkride
When an autopilot system is installed in the aircraft you're using for your instrument checkride, the examiner will likely expect you to demonstrate your proficiency in operating it. This goes beyond simply engaging the system; it involves understanding its capabilities and limitations and integrating it effectively into your flight management.
- Non-Precision Approaches: You will be expected to utilize the autopilot during at least one of the non-precision approaches. This demonstrates your ability to program, monitor, and manage the autopilot through critical phases of flight, ensuring adherence to approach procedures.
- Aircraft Management: Throughout the flight, the autopilot can serve as a valuable assistant in managing the aircraft. By offloading basic control tasks to the autopilot, you can dedicate more attention to critical aspects such as navigation, communication, systems monitoring, and decision-making, all of which are key areas evaluated during the checkride.
Balancing Automation with Manual Flying Skills
While autopilot use is an expected component of the checkride for certain tasks, it's crucial to remember that your fundamental manual flying skills will also be thoroughly assessed. The checkride is designed to ensure you possess comprehensive control of the aircraft, both with and without automation.
- Basic Instrument Maneuvers: You will be tested on your ability to perform basic instrument maneuvers, which typically require direct, manual control of the aircraft without autopilot assistance.
- Unusual Attitude Recoveries: Demonstrating proficiency in recovering from unusual attitudes is a critical element of the checkride and will require you to take immediate and decisive manual control of the aircraft.
Therefore, the IFR checkride evaluates a well-rounded skillset: your capability to effectively leverage advanced automation when appropriate, alongside your foundational competence in manually controlling the aircraft under instrument meteorological conditions.
