Originally Posted by
Maninthebar
From the report
Thanks for posting the text.
I am aware of the various aspects of autopilot engagement/technical details as I was an instructor on the 737 (all series) and have over 25 years flying and training on type as well as other Boeing types.
My point is that the FCTM refers to the aircraft being "trimmed" before engagement;
Quote from FCTM:
Autopilot Engagement.
The autopilot is FAA certified to allow engagement at or above 400 feet AGL after takeoff. Other NAA regulations or airline operating directives may specify a different minimum altitude. The
airplane should be in trim,
and the flight director commands should be satisfied before autopilot engagement. This prevents unwanted changes from the desired flight path during autopilot engagement.