What Airbus A350 Pilots Actually Do With The Autopilot On A 14-Hour Flight

Airbus A350 pilots routinely engage in hand-flying during long flights like the 14-hour flight operated by Air France 447. This practice stems from a deliberate design choice within the aircraft’s autopilot system, which is intended to assist rather than fully automate control. Specifically, the autopilot provides guidance but requires pilot intervention for certain phases of flight, particularly during approach and departure. Recent changes to airline training protocols have been influenced by the tragic events surrounding Flight 447, emphasizing enhanced crew coordination and response capabilities. The goal remains maintaining situational awareness while leveraging automation technology effectively.