Definition
An autopilot mode annunciation indicating the autopilot is controlling the aircraft about its longitudinal axis to hold wings level or maintain a commanded bank angle. ROL is typically the default lateral mode that engages when no other lateral mode (such as heading, navigation, or approach) is selected.
Plain English
A label on the autopilot display showing it is keeping the wings level or holding a set bank, rather than tracking a heading or course.
Context Anchor
Seen on a flight display or autopilot status area when the autopilot is on and no specific left-right steering mode is selected.
Derivation
Short for 'Roll,' the aircraft's motion about its longitudinal axis (nose to tail). The three-letter form is used because cockpit annunciators have limited display space.
Why Pilots Care
Allows the autopilot to manage turns and heading without constant pilot input, reducing workload during instrument flight.
Intuition Check
Do not read ROL as “the autopilot is navigating.” ROL only means the autopilot is controlling roll; another mode is needed to follow a heading or navigation path.
Example Sentence 1
After engaging the autopilot, the pilot saw ROL on the flight mode annunciator and pressed HDG to capture the assigned heading.
Example Sentence 2
The mode annunciator showed ROL active while the aircraft tracked the localizer.