Switch off the autopilot on A320

[sergejv]

Hello!
When I need to switch off the autopilot on A320 ?
1. ILS Approaches
CAT I
CAT II
CAT IIIa
CAT IIIb
CAT IIIc

2. Non-precision Approaches

[dodiano]

All of them at applicable DH except for the CAT III which I´m not sure cause I am not CAT II or III Rated yet... on Non Precission approaches at applicable MDA... But what is the fun on that?? ;)

Regards,

Roberto

[sergejv]

Thanks Roberto!
I think for ILS CAT I at applicable MDA(FAA) or DH(ICAO), CAT II/III at applicable DH. For ILS Approache with autoland CAT IIIc after touchdown and GS>=60 kt. Is it corrects?
Roberto, when you in real flight use Autopilot ???

[dodiano]

If we use the AUtopilot in real flights?? Yes all the time, I usually disconect it at 1000 feet and if I´m doing a Visual Approach might even disconnect it higher.

Regards,

Roberto

[bindook]

when do you engage the AP & throttle after t/o?


Michael

[sergejv]

AP can engage after 5 sec from Vr and minimum 100 ft AGL.
Autothrottle engage automatically after switch levers to CL gate at thrust reduction altitude (1500' def.).

[dodiano]

Well Sergejv posted as stated in the book, actually the Autothrust is armed in Blue when you apply TOGA or FLX power for takeoff...
Now as you retard the levers from either TOGA OR FLX to the Climb (CL) Detent it arms so the FMA read A/THR in white... Now the thrust reduction altitude is a reminder set on the MCDU that will appear on the FMA I could put them in the CL thrust before that and it will still arm the autothrust...
The autopilot can be ON as posted after 5 seconds and above 100 feet AGL... Now If it is a nice sunny day I normally fly it all the way to 8000 feet... but for example if you depart from a Crowded Airspace like Miami or Los Angeles you want to engage it maybe after gear up or after cleaning the plane so you can manage your cockpit more efficienttly!

Take care,

Roberto