What does the term "fly-by-wire" refer to?

The term "fly-by-wire" specifically refers to a system that uses electronic means to control the aircraft's flight systems, replacing traditional mechanical linkages with electronic interfaces. This technology allows pilots to interact with the aircraft's control surfaces via electronic signals, enhancing the precision and responsiveness of control inputs.

The fly-by-wire system typically includes features like digital flight control laws, which can provide various levels of stability and handling characteristics, enhancing safety and performance. This technology also enables modes such as autopilot and automated flight control systems, improving efficiency and reducing pilot workload.

In contrast, traditional mechanical control systems rely on physical cables and rods connected directly to the flight control surfaces, which limits the responsiveness and complexity of control. Manual overrides for autopilot systems do exist, but they do not define what fly-by-wire is; rather, they are part of how pilots can regain control if needed. Lastly, turbulence detection involves different sensors and systems, which are separate functionalities not directly related to fly-by-wire technology.