If you play Microsoft Flight Simulator and are running into the frustrating stuck throttle issue with the Boeing 747, do not fear — I have the answer!
(And no, this issue isn’t a software bug).
We all know that MSFS is the best travel game of all time, but many users have reported a similar problem:
They can increase the throttle to take off, but once in the air, they find themselves unable to manipulate engine speed, making it impossible to slow down or land.
Fortunately, I figured out how to solve this so you can actually slow down and land.
So if you’re MSFS throttle isn’t working, or stops working mid-flight, follow these steps to disengage the locked throttle so you can decrease the thrust and land.
How to Disengage the Boeing 747 Auto-throttle in MSFS
It’s a one step fix:
The solution to this stuck throttle issue is to located the AT/DISC (Auto-throttle Disconnect) button and press it.
Clicking this button will disconnect the auto-throttle and allow you to regain manual control.
There are 2 AT/DISC buttons on the 747, and you can use either one to accomplish this.
The 2 AT/DISC buttons are located to the left side of throttle #1 and to the right side of throttle #4.
Click these buttons and it will disconnect the auto throttle and you’ll be able to manually lower and raise thrust.
It’s worth noting that these buttons are connected to the throttles themselves, so when the throttles are in forward position, the buttons will be further forward on your screen. And when the throttles are pulled back, the buttons will be further back on your screen.
Note: this isn’t a software bug.
The auto-throttle will often be engaged automatically on a Boeing 747 as part of normal operations during specific phases of flight.
So if this happens to you, just disconnect the auto-throttle by toggling the AT/DISC connected to either side of the throttles.
It is quite annoying that there’s no hint of this in the game, and also that the pitch black color of these buttons makes it nearly impossible to find without knowing where there are.
But now that you know the fix for this, let’s get back in the air — then safely on the ground!
Further reading for Flight Sim fans:
As my favorite video game, I’ve written several other articles about my experience in MSFS and some of the add-ons I use, including the T-Flight HOTAS.
If you have any questions about the game or accessories, feel free to email me and I’m happy to tell you more about my experiences. If anyone has a good recommendation for a VR headset, I’m likewise interested in exploring that, so drop me a note! Happy flying!