Lesson from the FAA.
Did you know that there are rules about when pilots are not allowed to use auto pilot while flying an airplane?
Being married to an aerospace engineer has its advantages. Our conversations often turn to airplanes and math concepts. The latest nugget was when an airplane hits turbulence above a very mild level the pilot must take control of the plane. The trouble with autopilot is if it tries to fly the plane on the straight and narrow autopilot path thru significant turbulence the frequency and magnitude of auto correction would cause structural damage to the aircraft – sounds dangerous. A pilot on the other hand has the discernment to allow the plane to drop within the safety of his knowledge, situational awareness and experience. A large drop in turbulent air with a softer recovery gives the passengers a smoother ride in addition to avoiding structural damage. Of course my mind went straight to life application. How often we live on autopilot, picking our own “straight and narrow”. When turbulence comes we attempt to hold that line, over correct, no matter the cost and end up with structural damage to our lives as a result. Who is piloting us? How many of us could use the truth that sometimes a pilot has to patiently and calmly allow for a significant fall in order to recover stronger.