14 CFR · Part 25
14 CFR § 25.397
Control system loads.
General. The maximum and minimum pilot forces, specified in paragraph (c) of this section, are assumed to act at the appropriate control grips or pads (in a manner simulating flight conditions) and to be reacted at the attachment of the control system to the control surface horn.
Pilot effort effects. In the control surface flight loading condition, the air loads on movable surfaces and the corresponding deflections need not exceed those that would result in flight from the application of any pilot force within the ranges specified in paragraph (c) of this section. Two-thirds of the maximum values specified for the aileron and elevator may be used if control surface hinge moments are based on reliable data. In applying this criterion, the effects of servo mechanisms, tabs, and automatic pilot systems, must be considered.
Limit pilot forces and torques. The limit pilot forces and torques are as follows:
| Control | Maximum forces or torques | Minimum forces or torques |
|---|---|---|
| Aileron: | ||
| Stick | 100 lbs | 40 lbs. |
| Wheel ¹ | 80 D in.-lbs ² | 40 D in.-lbs. |
| Elevator: | ||
| Stick | 250 lbs | 100 lbs. |
| Wheel (symmetrical) | 300 lbs | 100 lbs. |
| Wheel (unsymmetrical) ³ | 100 lbs. | |
| Rudder | 300 lbs | 130 lbs. |
¹ The critical parts of the aileron control system must be designed for a single tangential force with a limit value equal to 1.25 times the couple force determined from these criteria. ² D = wheel diameter (inches). ³ The unsymmetrical forces must be applied at one of the normal handgrip points on the periphery of the control wheel.
Reflects the eCFR edition current as of September 29, 2026. Retrieved from ecfr.gov on October 16, 2026.
Primary Source