What action should be taken with the control wheel when runaway trim is detected?

• A. Assume manual control and override runaway
• B. Leave autopilot engaged and let it correct automatically
• C. Push the trim further to center it
• D. Apply full nose-down trim

Answer: (A)

Runaway trim means the elevator trim keeps moving on its own, which can force the airplane into an unintended pitch. The immediate goal is to regain control by taking manual command of the aircraft: grab the control wheel firmly and counteract the trim’s movement, while also disconnecting the autopilot so the system stops driving the trim. With manual control established, you can neutralize the trim and work to reset or troubleshoot the trim system. Pushing the trim further or leaving the autopilot engaged would worsen the uncontrolled movement and increase the risk of loss of control.