Wiley Post’s Autopilot “Mechanical Mike”

Wiley Post’s Autopilot “Mechanical Mike”
Post used this Sperry Gyroscope Company prototype for the first generation production autopilot on his 1933 around-the-world flight.  Known as “Mechanical Mike,” the autopilot allowed him to simultaneously fly and navigate.

  • WEB13149-2013

  • Copyright/Owner: Smithsonian Institution
  • Source: National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution
  • Photographer: Eric Long
  • For print or commercial use please see our permissions page.