What can happen if direct lift control is held for long periods near the ground?

Holding direct lift control for extended periods while close to the ground can lead to excessive sink rates. This occurs because direct lift control is primarily used to manage the aircraft's pitch attitude during low-speed operations, particularly during landing. When this control is applied, it can reduce the amount of lift generated by the aircraft's wings if held too long without proper corrections or adjustments.

As the aircraft approaches the ground and if excess control input is maintained, it may compromise lift, causing the aircraft to descend more rapidly than intended. Such rapid descent can result in a higher risk of landing hard or experiencing control loss during the critical phase of landing. It is crucial for pilots to understand the balance of controlling the aircraft's vertical descent and the associated effects of prolonged direct lift application, particularly in the final approach and during landing.