Underspeed Protection is available when the autopilot system is engaged. It is designed to discourage aircraft operation below minimum established air speeds.

When the aircraft reaches a predetermined airspeed (see pertinent flight manual for air speeds which are dependent upon flap setting, and anti-ice system on-board), a flashing amber ‘MINSPD’ annunciation will appear above the airspeed indicator.

When the airspeed trend vector reaches the predetermined airspeed, a single aural “Airspeed” will sound, alerting the pilot to the impending underspeed condition. If the aircraft continues to decelerate, an “Airspeed” voice alert will begin to sound every five seconds. The autopilot will provide input causing the aircraft to pitch down to increase airspeed and the wings to level. The pitch down force will continue until the aircraft reaches a pitch attitude at which airspeed equals the airspeed at which stall warning turns off, plus two knots. Previously-coupled flight director modes will change from armed back to active, allowing the aircraft to pitch up to recapture the mode references.