Autopilot

An autopilot is a system used to control the trajectory of an aircraft without constant 'hands-on' control by a human operator being required. Autopilots do not replace human operators, but instead they assist them in controlling the aircraft. This allows them to focus on broader aspects of operations such as monitoring the trajectory, weather and systems. The autopilot is often used in conjunction with the autothrottle, when present, which is the analogous system controlling the power delivered by the engines. The autopilot system on airplanes is sometimes colloquially referred to as 'George'.