The autopilot can take part in most of the control mechanisms except takeoff. In general, it controls the movement of the aircraft around the center of gravity and directs the aircraft according to safety parameters. Route data prepared before the flight is uploaded to this software.

As of 2026, standard commercial "autopilot" systems are not designed to perform takeoffs. While modern aircraft like the Airbus A350 or Boeing 787 feature incredibly sophisticated "Autoland" capabilities that can guide a plane to a safe landing in zero visibility, the takeoff phase remains a strictly manual task for the pilots. The primary reason is the high degree of instantaneous decision-making required during the "takeoff roll." Pilots must monitor engine performance, look for runway incursions (like a stray vehicle or another plane), and be ready to "abort" the takeoff in a split second if a mechanical failure occurs. Once the aircraft reaches a safe "climb-out" altitude—typically between 400 and 1,000 feet above the ground—the pilots will then engage the autopilot to follow the pre-programmed flight path. While companies like Airbus have successfully tested "Autonomous Assets" that can technically perform an automated takeoff using image recognition technology, these systems are currently in the experimental phase and are not yet approved for use in passenger-carrying commercial aviation due to regulatory and safety requirements.