Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Commercial Pilot License Practice Questions and Study Guide

Closing the throttle is a critical action to take after touchdown if experiencing a loss of elevator control. When elevator control is compromised, the pilot cannot effectively manage the aircraft's pitch attitude during landing rollout. Reducing power by closing the throttle can help decrease the airplane's speed and limit its tendency to rotate. This action minimizes the risk of the aircraft becoming airborne again or causing a tail strike, which can result from an uncontrolled nose-up attitude.

Also, managing the aircraft's speed is vital in this scenario to ensure that it remains controllable and stable on the runway. While dealing with the underlying issue of elevator control loss is crucial, moderating speed through throttle reduction allows the pilot to focus on maintaining directional control using the ailerons and rudders. Other actions, such as deploying flaps or activating emergency lights, may not directly address the immediate concern of maintaining control after touchdown.