Answers to questions from jimtx:
1. Would MCAS activate in a 250 knot 45 degree bank turn? Would it activate in a slightly over bank 35 degree turn at a lower airspeed?
- MCAS activates when AOA exceeds a threshold that is a function of speed/Mach number. MCAS activation is not dependent on bank angle.
- The 737 can be maneuvered to any bank angle at with AOA either above or below the MCAS activation threshold so it is not possible to determine whether or not MCAS would activate at either of the conditions proposed as there is no indication as to the associated AOA or the corresponding normal load factor.
2. Can the autopilot be put in the MCAS envelop where it is not protected?
- At some flight conditions it is possible to command the airplane when via the autopilot to an AOA high enough to put it into a condition where MCAS would activate if the autopilot were to be disconnected. MCAS will not come active with the autopilot engaged.
I hope these are helpful. As always, follow-ups welcome.