Originally Posted by
Ray Joe Czech
Fly 4-axis approaches? Can the L2 do this? IF so, we would have 2 less CFIT accidents, this one and the ETAP.
Yes, both can do 4-axis approaches, although the 225 with its much more precise control and flight envelope protection, is much better at it. We would never contemplate flying an approach in the 225 in 3-axis, but then the 225 is flown 4 axis all the time.
Because the L2 doesn't have the same power limiting functionality, its not normal to fly the L2 in 4-axis in the cruise or climb, but no reason not to for an approach. However much of the time the L2 will be being flown in 3 axis and perhaps that makes the fleet culture a bit different.
We are presuming of course that the collective axis was functional at the time, but that the crew chose not to use it.
As I mentioned earlier, I suspect that after this, there will be a tightening up of SOPs for use of automation, something which has mostly been at pilot's discretion up to now.