Video tip: how to fly with the Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot

When learning to fly, the majority of the time in the airplane will be spent learning how to use the controls and mastering the flight maneuvers required for the checkride. Many training airplanes also include an autopilot in the panel, but it’s not something you’ll use much during primary training.

After the checkride, though, there’s a real benefit in learning how to incorporate the autopilot into your flying. It’ll reduce fatigue on longer trips, and you’ll find it’s an integral part of instrument training should you decide to expand your skills and add an instrument rating.

This week’s tip takes a look at the basic features of Garmin’s popular GFC 500 autopilot, including how to turn it on and use airspeed, vertical speed, altitude and heading modes.

The video clip below is from Sporty’s 2022 Instrument Rating Course

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Bret Koebbe

As Sporty’s lead aviation course and video producer, Bret is usually flying an interesting airplane, and often with a camera rolling. He oversees the development, production and distribution of over 30 aviation courses from Sporty's, including the Private Pilot Learn to Fly Course. He is a flight instructor and check airman at the Sporty's Academy flight school and a senior captain on a Cessna Citation.

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