Advanced Avionics Practice Test

What is autothrottle and when is it typically engaged?

Autothrottle is used during on-ground parking. Autothrottle is used during climb, descent, and approaches. Autothrottle adjusts thrust automatically; typically engaged during climb, descent, and approaches. Autothrottle controls only the landing gear.

Correct Answer:

Autothrottle adjusts thrust automatically; typically engaged during climb, descent, and approaches.

Explanation:

Autothrottle automatically adjusts engine thrust to maintain a commanded airspeed or thrust schedule, taking work off the pilot and keeping performance consistent. It’s typically engaged during climb, descent, and approaches because these phases involve changing speeds as altitude, configuration, and flight path change. The system works with the autopilot or flight management system to follow the target speed, smoothly applying the correct thrust adjustments to meet those limits. On the ground there’s no airspeed to hold, so autothrottle isn’t used for parking. It also doesn’t control non-thrust systems like landing gear. In short, its main role is automatic thrust management to hit desired speeds during the flight segments where speed control is critical.

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