NTSB Recommends Airbus Autopilot Disconnect Logic Review

The National Transportation Safety Board has issued a recommendation directed at the Federal Aviation Administration regarding the automatic flight control systems used in Airbus A-300 and A-310 series aircraft. The board advises that the agency review the logic of these systems and require modification as necessary. The goal is to ensure that the autopilot will disconnect if the pilot applies a specified input to the flight controls or trim system. This requirement would apply regardless of the altitude or operating mode of the autopilot at the time of the input.