A method and apparatus for optimally controlling a gas turbine engine utilizes feedback signals each of which is a function of a plurality of output variables. Control signals are generated and transmitted to actuators which vary engine control variables to provide a desired level of engine performance. Signals representative of rated values of a plurality of engine output variables for the selected level of engine performance are generated and are compared with signals representative of actual values of the corresponding output variables to produce difference signals. One or more of the difference signals may also be integrated. The difference signals may also be weighted relative to each other as a function of ambient conditions and/or the selected level of engine performance. A plurality of the difference signals are then utilized to generate an individual feedback signal for each of the control variables. The feedback signals are tailored to modify the corresponding control variables.