When to use manual stab?

[skypickle]

Typically, NOE in the FLT/utility menu is off (circle is hollow) so as you decelerate, the nose wont pitch forward. It seems this control (NOE button) allows us to set up the helicopter either to land (NOE off) or to pitch it forward for better visibility during NOE flying. So what then,  is the use of manual stab control? It would seem redundant.

[Poptart]

I've heard that actual pilots don't ever touch it. The only time it's trained to take manual control is in emergencies. 

Not sure where I heard that but maybe an actual pilot can chime in.

[bradmick]

Manual stabilator is used on approaches or during NOE flight to improve forward visibility in the aircraft. The NOE approach mode may as well not even be a feature of the aircraft because it’s never used. Pilots prefer to be in control of when the aircraft does a thing, and manual stabilator gives them that control. I’ve personally turned NOE/A on twice in the actual aircraft, and both times decided it’s better to just manually control the stabilator.

Edited September 21, 2022 by bradmick

[Raptor9]

I agree with Brad. Why wouldn't I simply use the manual stab control that my thumb is already near and have an ability to tune the stab to the precise angle I need? Instead of reaching up to the MPD to go to a specific sub-page to toggle a mode that uses only one stabilator angle. In either case, the stabilator will revert to automatic scheduling when I go above 80 knots, but at least with the manual stabilator control I can time when the stabilator slews down when I go below 80 knots, and how far it goes.

Now if you are out of buttons on your HOTAS to map functions to, then maybe the NOE/A mode is your only option to get a different stabilator angle in play. But again, of limited usefulness.

[skypickle]

Thank you for your replies. Does manual stab control persist even above 80 knots?

[bradmick]

Nope, once above 80kts the system automatically reverts to auto and then prevents you from moving the stabilator manually. That stabilator has a fair amount of authority, so accidentally scheduling it down at high speed could have catastrophically fatal results.