Ask the Captain: Can a plane land on autopilot in case of emergency?

Can a plane land on autopilot in case of emergency?

– Captain4430, Melbourne, Florida

Many autopilot systems are capable of landing the airplane. This is usually the case in very low-visibility conditions. However, it takes a significant amount of training and knowledge to properly program the flight management computer, properly switch the autopilots into the proper modes and then monitor their performance. 

Recently, some small airplanes have implemented an emergency system that will automatically land  the aircraft on a runway, after advising air traffic control that there is an emergency, evaluating the weather and navigating to the runway. It is very sophisticated using a lot of artificial intelligence. It is highly likely that this technology will expand. 

How can it be verified that the HEPA filters on aircraft for the circulated air system are cleaned?

– Michael D., Texas

You can ask the airline for the cleaning or replacement intervals for their HEPA (high energy particulate arrestance) filters. It is unlikely that a reservation agent will know but if you submit a question via their website, they may be able to give you an answer.

From what I have read, the filters are being changed more frequently. They are a focus item as  airlines recognize the critical importance of passengers feeling safe onboard. 

Ask the Captain:  Are jets' HEPA filters capable of filtering out coronavirus particulates?

John Cox is a retired airline captain with US Airways and runs his own aviation safety consulting company, Safety Operating Systems.