MIL-DTL-9490E
1.2.1.1 Manual flight control systems (MFCS) Manual flight control systems consist of
electrical, mechanical and hydraulic components which transmit pilot control commands or
generate and convey commands which augment pilot control commands, and thereby accomplish
flight control functions. This classification includes the longitudinal, lateral-directional, lift, drag
and variable geometry control systems. In addition, their associated augmentation, performance
limiting and control devices are included.
1.2.1.2 Automatic flight control systems (AFCS). Automatic flight control systems consist
of electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic components which generate and transmit automatic
control commands which provide pilot assistance through automatic or semiautomatic flight path
control or which automatically control airframe response to disturbances. This classification
includes automatic pilots, stick or wheel steering, autothrottles, structural mode control and similar
control mechanizations.
FCS Operational State classifications.
1.2.2
1.2.2.1 Operational State I (normal operation). Operational State I is the normal state of
flight control system performance, safety and reliability. This state satisfies MIL-F-8785 or
MIL-F-83300 Level 1 flying qualities requirements within the operational flight envelope and
Level 2 within the service envelope and the stated requirements outside of these envelopes.
1.2.2.2 Operational State II (restricted operation). Operational State II is the state of less
than normal equipment operation or performance which involves degradation or failure of only a
noncritical portion of the overall flight control system. A moderate increase in crew workload and
degradation in mission effectiveness may result from a limited selection or normally operating
FCS modes available for use; however, the intended mission may be accomplished. This state
satisfies at least MIL-F-8785 or MIL-F-83300 Level 2 flying qualities requirements within the
operational flight envelope and Level 3 within the service envelope.
1.2.2.3 Operational State III (minimum safe operation). Operational State III is the state of
degraded flight control system performance, safety or reliability which permits safe termination of
precision tracking or maneuvering tasks, and safe cruise, descent, and landing at the destination of
original intent or alternate but where pilot workload is excessive or mission effectiveness is
inadequate. Phases of the intended mission involving precision tracking or maneuvering cannot be
completed satisfactorily. This state satisfies at least MIL-F-8785 or MIL-F-83300 Level 3 flying
qualities requirements.
1.2.2.4 Operational State IV (controllable to an immediate emergency landing).
Operational State IV is the state of degraded FCS operation at which continued safe flight is not
possible; however, sufficient control remains to allow engine restart attempt(s), a controlled
descent and immediate emergency landing.
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