Definition
In helicopter flight controls, augmentation is the use of automatic systems — such as a stability augmentation system (SAS), autopilot, or force-feel system — to add to or refine the pilot's control inputs in order to improve stability, handling, and workload management, particularly during instrument flight.
Plain English
Extra help from the helicopter's automatic systems that work alongside the pilot to keep the aircraft steady and easier to fly.
Context Anchor
Seen in helicopter instrument certification discussions, especially when describing systems that help the aircraft meet IFR handling and stability requirements.
Derivation
From Latin augere, meaning 'to increase' or 'to add to.' In aviation, the systems don't replace the pilot's inputs — they add to them, increasing stability and precision.
Why Pilots Care
Helicopters often lack the natural stability of airplanes; augmentation systems make instrument flight practical and safe by reducing pilot workload and preventing unwanted oscillations.
Intuition Check
Augmentation does not just mean “an optional extra.” In this context, it means added system help that may be required for the helicopter to meet IFR standards.
Example Sentence 1
The helicopter's stability augmentation reduced pilot workload during the ILS approach in turbulence.
Example Sentence 2
During the approach in instrument conditions the pilot relied on the augmentation to maintain level flight while referencing the instruments.