Aerosoft CRJ AUTOPILOT TUTORIAL || MFS2020 || Quick and easy!

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on using the autopilot system in the CRJ aircraft within Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. It will break down the functions of the Motor Control Panel (MCP) and demonstrate how to engage various autopilot modes during different phases of flight. Understanding these controls will enhance your simulation experience and improve your flying skills.

Chapter 1: Location of MCP

• The MCP, or Motor Control Panel, is located on the glare shield between the pilots.
• It controls both the autopilot system and the flight director on the Primary Flight Display (PFD).
• You can manipulate the flight director even when the autopilot is off to receive guidance.

Chapter 2: Autopilot Modes

• The PFD displays the current autopilot modes above the attitude indicator:
  • Roll Mode: Manages horizontal movement.
  • Pitch Mode: Manages vertical movement.
• Once engaged, the autopilot maintains the current heading and pitch until a different mode is selected.

Chapter 3: Overview of MCP Controls

Core Knob

• Adjusts the course for navigation aids like VOR or ILS.
• Each pilot has access to individual course knobs.

Flight Director Button

• Turns the flight director system on or off.

Autopilot Engage and Disconnect Buttons

• Engage autopilot to activate.
• Disconnect button can be assigned to a joystick for quick access.

Transfer and Turbulence Buttons

• Transfer Button: Used in case of a failure in the autopilot computer.
• Turbulence Button: Smooths autopilot control movements during turbulence.

Speed Control

• The lower speed knob sets the desired airspeed.
• Pressing the middle of the knob toggles between knots and Mach.

Approach and Back Course Buttons

• Approach Button: Follows localizer and glide slope during an ILS approach.
• Back Course Button: Used for localizers when flying past the runway.

Heading and Nav Buttons

• Heading Button: Engages heading mode based on selected heading.
• Nav Button: Follows the programmed flight plan or selected navigation source.

Altitude and Vertical Speed Controls

• Altitude Knob: Select desired altitude. Pressing the button levels off at the current altitude.
• Vertical Speed Button: Selects the rate of climb or descent.
  • Use speed mode for climbs and vertical speed mode for descents.

Chapter 4: Practical Demonstration

1. Takeoff Preparation

   • Before takeoff, press the TOGA switch on the thrust levers.
   • Monitor the PFD for guidance during the climb.

2. Post-Takeoff Actions

   • Once at 600 feet, engage the autopilot.
   • At 200 knots, retract flaps and set the speed to 250 knots.
   • Engage speed mode and nav mode.

3. Descent Preparation

   • Set the altitude provided by ATC.
   • Engage vertical speed mode and adjust the descent rate.

4. ILS Interception

   • Select heading mode to maintain current direction.
   • Switch the nav source to localizer and press nav mode to intercept.

5. Final Approach

   • Press the approach button to capture the glide slope.
   • Monitor the PFD for indications that the aircraft is following the glide slope.

6. Landing

   • When ready, disconnect the autopilot and hand fly the aircraft to the runway.

Conclusion

Understanding the functions of the MCP and how to effectively use the autopilot system in the CRJ will greatly enhance your flight experience in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. Practice these steps during your flights, and don't hesitate to explore additional CRJ systems for further learning. Happy flying!