Do All Pilots Use the Autopilot?
The autopilot is not just for trainee pilots or for when the weather is bad, most modern jets use autopilots for almost 90% of the flight time. In fact, pilots are encouraged to engage the autopilot whenever possible. This doesn’t mean that pilots are just sitting there twiddling their thumbs though. An autopilot still needs to be be “told” what to do so pilots are constantly making adjustments during the flight.
They also have to monitor different parameters, communicate with the ATC, and ensure that everything is as it should be. It’s interesting to note that the autopilot cannot be used for takeoff and is usually switched off before landing unless the pilots are performing an autoland.