Originally Posted by
paxrune
Do professional pilots have to be specifically trained and certified to use the autopilot features of an aircraft, before they can use autopilot? Or is autopilot training just included in normal training?
All jets and twin turboprops require a type rating which will demand full training in every aspect of the aircraft. Smaller light aircraft may or may not have AFDS fitted so it's entirely possible to learn to fly in a C172 without AP and then later rent one with an AP (I have - I just didn't try to use it!). Auto pilots can range from simple wing levellers and altitude hold functions to fully integrated Autopilot/flight director systems with 2 or 3 autopilots and multiple flight management computers with autoland capability.