automatic pilot

noun
1.
Aeronautics. an airborne electronic control system that automatically maintains a preset heading and attitude.
Also called automatic, autopilot, gyropilot, robot.
Idioms
2.
on automatic pilot, functioning in an unthinking or reflexive manner.
Origin
1915-20
Examples from the web for automatic pilot
  • Throughout your flight the robot will control the throttles and the plane's automatic pilot.
  • He then switched the steering mechanism to automatic pilot.
  • Hey, these guys and gals are more than mere gagsters on automatic pilot.
  • automatic pilot and automatic ballast and trim functions are desired.
  • The controls included an automatic pilot and two sets of instruments.
  • Your body will subconsciously go into automatic pilot and express behaviorisms that undermine your testimony.
British Dictionary definitions for automatic pilot

automatic pilot

noun
1.
Also called autopilot. a device that automatically maintains an aircraft on a preset course
2.
(informal) on automatic pilot, acting without conscious thought because of tiredness, shock, or familiarity with the task being performed
Encyclopedia Article for automatic pilot

device for controlling an aircraft or other vehicle without constant human intervention.

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