With the autopilot or flight director engaged, what happens if you move the vertical speed wheel more than 200 fpm?

When the autopilot or flight director is engaged and the vertical speed wheel is moved more than 200 feet per minute (fpm), vertical speed mode will engage. This action effectively commands the autopilot to adjust the aircraft's vertical speed according to the new setting.

In this context, vertical speed mode allows the pilot to specify the rate of climb or descent. By exceeding the 200 fpm threshold on the vertical speed wheel, the autopilot transitions to maintain the desired vertical speed that the pilot has selected. This capability is essential for managing altitude changes efficiently and safely during flight.

Understanding this function is crucial for pilots, as it facilitates precise management of aircraft altitude and ensures compliance with air traffic control instructions and flight plans.