When is the usage of autopilot approved for FMS defined approaches?

The usage of autopilot for Flight Management System (FMS) defined approaches is not approved in certain operational contexts due to safety and regulatory considerations. The primary reason for this prohibition is that manual control is essential for pilots to ensure they maintain situational awareness and are prepared to take immediate action if needed. Autopilot systems may not react optimally to unexpected conditions, and pilots must be ready to intervene to maintain safe flight operations.

Additionally, guidelines from aviation authorities and manufacturer recommendations typically emphasize that pilots should be in command of the aircraft during approaches to handle any anomalies that may arise, particularly in complex airspace or adverse weather conditions. This approach emphasizes the necessity for pilots to engage actively with the aircraft's operation during critical phases of flight, such as approaches, to ensure safety and compliance with established operational procedures.

In comparison, the other options suggest conditions under which autopilot might be used that do not align with standard operational practices and safety protocols set by aviation authorities. These alternatives underestimate the importance of pilot involvement during critical phases of flight.