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Integration level of an autothrottle system

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 20 of 26 on Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems. ACS element AM.II.I.K17 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONAn autothrottle system is combined with the flight director and autopilot glideslope modes so that automatic landings are possible. At what level of integration does this occur?

  1. AThe automatic flight control system
  2. BThe basic single-axis wing leveler autopilot
  3. CThe air data computer
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. The automatic flight control system

  • A — correct The handbook states it is at the AFCS level of integration that an autothrottle is integrated into the flight director and autopilot systems with glideslope modes so that auto landings are possible.
  • B — incorrect A single-axis autopilot only controls roll and has no throttle or glideslope capability.
  • C — incorrect The air data computer supplies air data to other systems; it does not integrate throttle and autopilot commands.

BACKGROUND

An aircraft autopilot with many features and various related systems integrated into a single system is called an automatic flight control system, or AFCS. Advances beyond an ordinary autopilot include the extent of programmability, integration of navigational aids, integration of the flight director and autothrottle systems, and combining the command elements of these systems into one human interface. It is at the AFCS level that the autothrottle is integrated with the flight director and autopilot glideslope modes, which is what makes automatic landings possible. Small general aviation aircraft produced with an AFCS may lack the throttle-dependent features.

STUDY TIP

Think of the AFCS as the umbrella that ties autopilot, flight director, and autothrottle together; autoland capability is the giveaway that AFCS-level integration is present.

KEY POINTS

  • Autothrottle integration occurs at the AFCS level.
  • AFCS combines autopilot, flight director, autothrottle, and navigation aids into one interface.
  • Small general aviation AFCS installations may omit throttle-dependent features.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-31B ch10 "Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS)"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.