What capabilities does CAT II/III autoland provide on the A321?

• A. Automatic landing under low visibility with autopilot and autoland system, depending on equipment and weather, and operator procedures
• B. Manual landing only
• C. It cannot operate in low visibility
• D. It requires no crew input

Answer: (A)

CAT II/III autoland on the A321 means the airplane can perform an automatic landing in low visibility using the autopilot and the autoland system, as long as the aircraft is properly equipped and the operation follows the required weather minima and airline procedures. When engaged, the autoland system takes control of the approach, flare, and touchdown using the ILS data, guided by the autopilot and flight control computers. The crew must set up the approach, verify CAT II/III readiness, and continuously monitor the approach, ready to take over if conditions or procedures require it. This capability depends on having the right equipment (such as dual ILS receivers and the autoland/autopilot integration), meeting the certified visibility and altitude limits, and following the operator’s procedures. It is not manual-only, it does operate in low visibility, and it does require crew input and oversight.