EMB-145 flight crew reported binding and abnormal resistance when attempting to roll the aircraft after takeoff. The flight crew performed an air turn back to departure airport.
Synopsis
EMB-145 flight crew reported binding and abnormal resistance when attempting to roll the aircraft after takeoff. The flight crew performed an air turn back to departure airport.
Narrative
Departing ZZZ airport shortly after takeoff; the Captain mentioned an abnormal resistance and binding sensation whenever he tried to roll the aircraft. We maintained our climb while actively investigating the problem. Controls were transferred to myself; the First Officer. To verify the abnormality and confirm the excessive effort required to maneuver them.We made the decision to return to ZZZ. While the ailerons were not jammed; they exhibited a challenging resistance and a binding sensation. Furthermore; every roll input was accompanied by a distinct grinding sound; which persisted throughout the flight. We prioritized the safety and comfort of our passengers; as we were not satisfied with the aircraft's handling characteristics. ATC and Dispatch was notified. We ensured that our aircraft was below the maximum landing weight and completed all checklists.The Flight Attendant was briefed; followed by a PA announcement. We landed on Runway XXR; taxied the aircraft back to the gate; and deplaned all passengers in a normal manner.Once we arrived at the gate; our flight attendant confirmed that she could hear a similar grinding sound emanating from the area where the wings meet the fuselage. Passengers onboard also reported hearing this peculiar sound.
Second reporter narrative
Following takeoff; I immediately noticed an abnormal resistance and binding sensation in the ailerons whenever I attempted to roll the aircraft. Determined to identify the root cause of this issue; we maintained our climb while actively investigating the problem. In order to confirm my concerns regarding the ailerons; I transferred control to the first officer; who also verified the abnormality and confirmed the excessive effort required to maneuver them.With growing unease about the aircraft's flight control characteristics; I assumed control and we made the decision to return to ZZZ. In our efforts to diagnose the issue; we diligently consulted the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH); but unfortunately; no procedure aligned with our current condition. While the ailerons were not jammed; they exhibited a challenging resistance and a binding sensation. Furthermore; every roll input was accompanied by a distinct grinding sound; which persisted throughout the flight. We prioritized the safety and comfort of our passengers; as we were not satisfied with the aircraft's handling characteristics. I promptly notified air traffic control (ATC) of the situation; and they provided us with appropriate vectors while we informed Dispatch via ACARS. We ensured that our aircraft was below the maximum landing weight and meticulously completed all the necessary checklists.Using the intercom system; I briefed our Flight Attendant about our intended return to ZZZ; followed by a clear announcement over the PA system to inform the passengers that we would be landing shortly. Safely touching down on Runway XXR; we taxied the aircraft back to the gate and deplaned all passengers in a normal manner.Once we arrived at the gate; our Flight Attendant also confirmed that she could hear a similar grinding sound emanating from the area where the wings meet the fuselage. Passengers onboard also reported hearing this peculiar sound.I made an entry in the maintenance logbook and called Dispatch/Maintenance regarding the issue. The lockout tag out device was installed. I received a call and briefed the Operations Control duty manager via phone on what had occurred as well as Maintenance. Shortly thereafter union safety called me with a questionnaire regarding incident. Another aircraft was ferried to ZZZ and we operated it back to ZZZ1. [Priority handling was not requested] by the crew however ATC rolled Airport Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) services as a precaution.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.