What does FCU stand for in the context of aircraft avionics?

The term FCU stands for Flight Control Unit in the context of aircraft avionics. The Flight Control Unit plays a crucial role in managing the aircraft's autopilot and flight management systems. It provides pilots with the ability to input and modify flight parameters such as altitude, speed, and heading, which are essential for automated flight operations.

In the A320, the FCU interface allows the pilot to engage various modes of automation, such as altitude hold, vertical speed, or heading select, facilitating precise control of the aircraft during flight. This central management unit enhances the pilot's efficiency and situational awareness in conjunction with other avionics systems.

The other options do not accurately reflect the terminology used in avionics. "Flight Communication Unit" and "Flight Central Unit" do not describe the functionality associated with controlling flight parameters and automation as the Flight Control Unit does.