If the autopilot changes attitude to correct an error and the involved control surfaces are returned to streamline by the time the aircraft reaches its correct position, what will occur?

If the autopilot changes attitude to correct an error and the involved control surfaces are returned to streamline by the time the aircraft reaches its correct position, what will occur?

• A. Abnormal flight condition
• B. Autopilot disengagement
• C. Normal operation
• D. Loss of control

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that after the autopilot corrects the attitude, it brings the control surfaces back toward a neutral/trim position to minimize drag, and the aircraft continues flying in a steady, commanded attitude. Once the target attitude is reached and the surfaces are streamlined, the flight remains normal with the autopilot maintaining the updated attitude. There may be a brief transient as surfaces move back to neutral, but no abnormal condition, no disengagement, and no loss of control occur.

The key idea is that after the autopilot corrects the attitude, it brings the control surfaces back toward a neutral/trim position to minimize drag, and the aircraft continues flying in a steady, commanded attitude. Once the target attitude is reached and the surfaces are streamlined, the flight remains normal with the autopilot maintaining the updated attitude. There may be a brief transient as surfaces move back to neutral, but no abnormal condition, no disengagement, and no loss of control occur.