Definition
The degree to which a helicopter's flight controls are assisted by automatic stability and control systems, such as a Stability Augmentation System (SAS), autopilot, or Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS). The level of augmentation installed on a specific helicopter determines what instrument flight operations are approved, and these limitations are stated in the Rotorcraft Flight Manual.
Plain English
How much help the helicopter's automatic systems give the pilot in keeping the aircraft stable and on course. More help means the helicopter is approved for more demanding instrument flying; less help means it is restricted to simpler operations.
Context Anchor
Seen in helicopter flight manual limitations, especially when checking whether the helicopter is approved for instrument procedures or flight in low visibility.
Derivation
Augmentation comes from the Latin augmentare, meaning to increase or add to. In this context, the helicopter's basic controls are 'added to' by automatic systems that increase stability and reduce pilot workload.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures the helicopter has enough automatic stability assistance to remain controllable during instrument flight; operating below the required level risks loss of control in IMC.
Intuition Check
Do not read “level” as altitude here. It means degree or amount. Do not read “augmentation” as more engine power. It means added control or stability help from installed systems.
Example Sentence 1
Before accepting the IFR clearance, the pilot checked the Rotorcraft Flight Manual to confirm the helicopter's level of augmentation permitted single-pilot operations.
Example Sentence 2
The flight manual prohibited IFR approaches unless the level of augmentation was at least SAS 2.