Theres little else quite as ingrained in the minds of pilots, or emblematic of flight itself, as the stick and rudder. It seems axiomatic that losing the ability to control an airplanes roll, pitch or yaw would set you up for a quick toboggan ride downhill, followed by a very loud noise. Does the thought of helplessly watching your airplane wrenching itself into an unusual attitude and then plunging into a schoolyard turn up those horror movie violins? Well, even your best preflight might not immunize you from having a control surface failure, but knowing what to do and taking prompt action could prevent one from ruining your day. 288
Control Freak
Theres little else quite as ingrained in the minds of pilots, or emblematic of flight itself, as the stick and rudder. It seems axiomatic that losing the ability to control an airplanes roll, pitch or yaw would set you up for a quick toboggan ride downhill, followed by a very loud noise.
Key Takeaways:
- Control surface failures, particularly elevator malfunctions, are critical in-flight emergencies that demand pilot preparedness and prompt, specific actions to prevent catastrophic outcomes.
- Mitigation involves thorough understanding of the aircraft's control system (via AFM/POH) and diligent preflight inspections of all movable components for wear or damage.
- Should a failure occur, pilots must first gently fly the airplane using available controls (especially trim), then head for the nearest and longest runway, and immediately declare an emergency.
- For elevator failure, distinguish between a disconnected system (where trim works directly to control pitch) and a jammed one (where trim acts reversely or as a small elevator), and crucially, avoid using flaps during approach and landing.
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