What does a two-axis autopilot assist with in aviation?

A two-axis autopilot primarily assists with altitude and heading control. This type of autopilot operates on two axes: the lateral axis and the vertical axis. The lateral axis relates to the aircraft’s roll and bank angle, allowing the autopilot to maintain or alter the aircraft's heading. The vertical axis is concerned with the aircraft’s altitude, enabling the autopilot to maintain a set altitude or to adjust altitude changes as needed.

By managing these two essential functionalities, a two-axis autopilot provides pilots with the ability to reduce workload during flight, especially during long flights or in busy air traffic situations. It allows for smoother and more consistent flight operations by maintaining the desired altitude and heading without requiring constant manual input from the pilot.

Other options reflect areas of flight management but do not directly pertain to the capabilities of a two-axis autopilot. Speed and fuel management, for instance, typically falls under a more comprehensive system that might include engine management and performance monitoring, while flight path navigation often requires a third axis (vertical navigation) and specific navigation systems. Communication with air traffic control is a function unrelated to autopilot systems and focuses on pilot responsibilities and coordination with ATC.