FACT FILE: Engine Controller
Similar
to the interchageable joystick is the interchangeable engine controller
or 'throttle' as it is colloquially referred to by pilots. This, too, is
a 'plug-and-play' unit that allows pilots to change from one craft to another
and be assured of having the proper flight controls for their particualr
number of digits and arranged for their dominant hand.
Throttles are not usually interchageable between types of aircraft, but rather between all aircraft of a given type. The one exception is the AE-110 throttle shown here, which can be used on either the A-44 Hurricane, the A-78 Dragon, or the A-60 Havoc.
The throttles follow the concept of HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick) which incorporates all vital flight controls into the stick and engine controller so that the pilot never has to release the controls during combat. Each switch has a particular type of button with a unique texture, so that the pilot can confirm which control he is operating by feel alone.
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