An Industry First

ElectronicFlight Solutions has completed its five-volume CompleteLearning™ Avionics Software Library with the addition of its interactive Autopilot training module. The new autopilot training software covers the operation of three autopilots -- the Bendix/King KAP-140 / KFC-225 and the S-TEC 55/X (including ST360 Altitude Selector/Alerter). The theory, function, operation and procedures also encompass the Bendix/King KFC-150/200/250 autopilots as well as the entire line of S-TEC General Aviation autopilots.

The ElectronicFlight Autopilot module addresses a total void in autopilot education and details the general theory of both position and rate based autopilot systems available for general aviation aircraft. More than just a simple explanation of the controls, the training uses computer animations to explain the aerodynamics of the autopilot, internal workings of the servos, coupled approaches, troubleshooting tips, turbulence procedures and much more. Basic stability and feedback systems are explained as well as the various systems feeding the autopilot. Navigation and trim system operation are explained in detail with the use of moving graphics and concept demonstrations. According to Paul Novacek, ElectronicFlight Solutions' VP of Development, "This is the first time that in-depth autopilot training has been offered outside of airline training centers."

Kennedy remembered...

"It is well-acknowledged that the JFKjr crash in 1999 may have been prevented had he received adequate training in the use of the Bendix/King KFC 150 autopilot in his Piper Saratoga. ElectronicFlight Solutions will release the CompleteLearning™ Autopilot Module, on July 18, 2003 -- the anniversary date of the JFK Jr. accident." explains Howard Reisman, Founder and CEO of ElectronicFlight Solutions. He continues, "An autopilot can be your best friend in single-pilot, high-workload situations, yet the FAA does not mandate any form of training for autopilot systems in order to earn a rating. The Electronicflight CompleteLearningä Autopilot module is the industry's first, affordable software training tool available for all pilots."

ElectronicFlight uses computer generated animation and highly interactive exercises to implant mental models (pictures) of autopilot capabilities into the working knowledge of a pilot, thus providing the tools to formulate an integrated operational strategy. All aspects of autopilot operation are covered in great detail to integrate the capabilities of an autopilot system into the decision making process. After successfully navigating the entire Autopilot Module, the operation, and familiarity, of an autopilot should become second nature when it counts the most-under high-workload situations.

FMI: www.ElectronicFlight.com