JMB VL3 autopilot cannot be activated

Hello there,

Certainly, your issue with the autopilot function of the JMB VL3 in MSFS 2020 is indeed perplexing, especially considering the fine detail of your observations. From what you've described, the issue appears to lie somewhere within the interaction between the software and your hardware control inputs.

The Flight Management System (FMS) (a specialized computer system that automates a wide variety of in-flight tasks, such as navigation and flight planning), and the Primary Flight Display (PFD) (an instrument that consolidates all primary flight instruments into a single, easy-to-read display) seem to be functioning as expected, displaying your intended flight path. However, the autopilot activation, in this case, isn't functioning, either via your keyboard or Flight Yoke System.

Firstly, I suggest a few simple yet effective steps to troubleshoot:

1. Ensure you are using the most recent version of MSFS 2020.
2. Check if your keyboard and Flight Yoke System's drivers are up to date.
3. Try reconfiguring your control settings within the simulator.

However, if these steps do not resolve your issue, it's possible that the problem may lie within the aircraft configuration itself. As you're no doubt aware, flight simulators such as MSFS 2020 are incredibly detailed and complex pieces of software. At times, glitches and bugs can occur, particularly when specific interactions with certain aircraft types, such as the JMB VL3, are involved.

The JMB VL3 has an unusual Autopilot setup, different from most General Aviation (GA) aircraft. The "AP" button (which stands for Autopilot, a system used in aircraft to guide the path of the aircraft without continuous input from the pilot) might not always be visible or may not be placed where you'd expect it to be.

As such, it's possible that the autopilot function for the VL3 may have a specific activation procedure that is distinct from other aircraft models. For instance, some aircraft models may require you to engage a separate autopilot master switch before individual autopilot functions can be activated.

If you're not already aware, I would recommend checking out the official Microsoft Flight Simulator forums. There, you will find a wealth of information and advice from a community of experienced pilots and simulation enthusiasts who may have encountered similar issues.

Moreover, given the frequent updates and modifications the MSFS 2020 team releases, it's also worth regularly checking their Known Issues page, as well as the FAQs on their official website. These resources may provide additional guidance or a potential solution to your problem.

I hope this information helps you to resolve your autopilot activation problem with the JMB VL3 in MSFS 2020. Keep us updated on your progress, and happy flying!