Which flight control surface is operated by the left yoke when the pitch disconnect handle is pulled?

Which flight control surface is operated by the left yoke when the pitch disconnect handle is pulled?

• A. The left elevator
• B. The right elevator
• C. The left aileron
• D. The rudder

Answer: (A)

When the pitch disconnect handle is pulled, the left yoke becomes responsible for controlling the left elevator exclusively. This is to allow for independent control of the elevator on that side, which is essential in situations where there might be a failure or malfunction on one side of the aircraft’s control system. In this configuration, the left yoke's movement directly influences the left elevator, enabling the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft's pitch despite any discrepancies with the right side. This independent operation is crucial for ensuring safe flight maneuvers, particularly in scenarios requiring precise control during takeoff, landing, or in response to an emergency. In contrast, the right elevator and the rudder involve different control mechanisms and do not respond to the left yoke in this scenario. The left aileron is also not controlled by the left yoke in this particular instance, as its operation is typically tied to rolling movements and would not engage with the pitch disconnect function.

When the pitch disconnect handle is pulled, the left yoke becomes responsible for controlling the left elevator exclusively. This is to allow for independent control of the elevator on that side, which is essential in situations where there might be a failure or malfunction on one side of the aircraft’s control system. In this configuration, the left yoke's movement directly influences the left elevator, enabling the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft's pitch despite any discrepancies with the right side. This independent operation is crucial for ensuring safe flight maneuvers, particularly in scenarios requiring precise control during takeoff, landing, or in response to an emergency.

In contrast, the right elevator and the rudder involve different control mechanisms and do not respond to the left yoke in this scenario. The left aileron is also not controlled by the left yoke in this particular instance, as its operation is typically tied to rolling movements and would not engage with the pitch disconnect function.