Description

The Mode Control Panel (MCP) controls an advanced autopilot and related systems such as an automated flight director system (AFDS) or an auto-throttle system. MCP's are given various names by different aircraft manufacturers.

The MCP is so called because it contains controls that allow the crew of the aircraft to select which parts of the aircraft's flight are to be controlled automatically. In modern MCPs, there are many different modes of automation available. The mode selector controls are used to choose roll and pitch modes for the autopilots and to activate or deactivate the auto-throttles where installed. Basic inputs such as heading, speed, vertical speed, flight level/altitude can be input. Once these modes have been selected as active, the aircraft computers will then adjust the pitch attitude, heading and thrust to achieve the selected parameters. Use of these modes does not necessarily require a vertical or lateral profile to be input into the FMS.