A device for controlling an aircraft and maintaining a set course without the intervention of the pilot. Cf. autopilot, n.

= automatic pilot, n. (in senses 1 and 2).

a gyro-compass used to steer a vessel or an aircraft without human agency.

slang (originally Air Force). An aircraft's automatic pilot (personified).

A pilot who uses or performs astronavigation; (also) an automatic device for use in astronavigation.

The use of electrical systems (instead of mechanical connections) for controlling the flight of an aircraft; a system of this type. Cf. drive-by-wire…