The spring clutch in an Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) is part of the trim actuator mechanism. It provides a feedback feel load to the pilot, allowing for the adjustment of control forces. The system uses springs to adjust the position of the cyclic control, enabling the pilot to feel zero stick force. This adjustment can be controlled automatically or manually, often through a switch on the pilot's cyclic, known as a "beep switch."

Pressing the trim release button, de-activates the cyclic force feel system by energising and opening the electrical clutch, thus separating the gears. This allows the springs to reset to the new datum. Releasing the button causes the clutch to close. The new cyclic position becomes the neutral (no force) position.

The spring clutch in an Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) enables the pilot to override the system without disengaging it, by mechanically overriding actuator inputs. This allows for immediate manual control when necessary, providing a safety mechanism for the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft in situations where the AFCS might not be performing as desired.