What may happen to the autopilot during flight if the aircraft's trim conditions change due to fuel burn-off?

Master the CASA Aircraft General Knowledge Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each providing hints and explanations. Get set for your aviation exam!

The autopilot's primary function is to maintain the aircraft's flight path by automatically adjusting control surfaces like ailerons, elevators, and rudders based on the current input and flight conditions. When the aircraft experiences fuel burn-off, it results in a change in weight and balance, which can affect the aircraft’s trim conditions.

If the aircraft's trim conditions change significantly due to fuel burn-off, the autopilot may struggle to maintain the desired flight parameters because the original settings may no longer be appropriate. In this scenario, if the autopilot cannot compensate for the changes effectively, it may automatically disengage to prevent potential control issues. This is a safety feature designed to ensure that the pilot maintains control of the aircraft under altered conditions.

The other options do not accurately reflect the behavior of the autopilot in this situation. While the autopilot is designed to maintain the current heading, it may not be able to do so effectively under changing conditions without adjustments. The autopilot does not have the ability to adjust throttle settings itself; throttles are typically managed separately by the pilot or an automatic throttle system. Lastly, it’s unrealistic to expect the autopilot to continue functioning without changes when significant alterations occur in weight and balance due to fuel burn-off. Overall

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