If both autopilot buttons are selected on, what is the status of the FMGCs?

If both autopilot buttons are selected on, what is the status of the FMGCs?

• A. FMGC 1 is the primary
• B. FMGC 2 is the primary
• C. The FMGCs revert to the single mode
• D. The FMGCs revert to the independent mode

Answer: (A)

When both autopilot buttons are selected on in the A320, FMGC 1 assumes the primary role for flight management. In typical operation, the two Flight Management and Guidance Computers (FMGCs) are designed to work in a collaborative manner, with one serving as the primary source of data and the other as a backup. When both autopilot modes are engaged, the aircraft's systems are configured such that FMGC 1 becomes the primary, handling navigation and guidance functions, while FMGC 2 remains in a standby or backup role. This configuration is intentional to ensure that the primary system (FMGC 1) takes the lead in decision-making processes regarding navigation and autopilot commands, thereby streamlining the operation and enhancing safety. The independent mode would imply each FMGC operates separately without a primary, which is not the case when both autopilot buttons are engaged. In this scenario, the aircraft is optimized for defined operational efficiency and safety through FMGC 1's primary status.

When both autopilot buttons are selected on in the A320, FMGC 1 assumes the primary role for flight management. In typical operation, the two Flight Management and Guidance Computers (FMGCs) are designed to work in a collaborative manner, with one serving as the primary source of data and the other as a backup. When both autopilot modes are engaged, the aircraft's systems are configured such that FMGC 1 becomes the primary, handling navigation and guidance functions, while FMGC 2 remains in a standby or backup role.

This configuration is intentional to ensure that the primary system (FMGC 1) takes the lead in decision-making processes regarding navigation and autopilot commands, thereby streamlining the operation and enhancing safety. The independent mode would imply each FMGC operates separately without a primary, which is not the case when both autopilot buttons are engaged. In this scenario, the aircraft is optimized for defined operational efficiency and safety through FMGC 1's primary status.