Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Troubleshooting
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Flight Crew FLC Overrode Automation; Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control
Aircraft
Departing from the gate to [the] runway all was normal with all checks being done. Once taking the runway the PF (pilot flying) took the controls and smoothly advanced the thrust levers. Once airborne he immediately trimmed the aircraft for climb feeling the aircraft responding and visually confirming it on the pitch trim indicator on the EICAS. At approximately 6 degrees pitch; we noticed a stoppage at 6 degrees and immediately after; the PITCHTRIM INOP EICAS message appeared. As the aircraft accelerated the PF felt aft forces too heavy to push forward so he asked for assistance from the PM (pilot monitoring). Upon the PM applying full forward force on the yoke; the PF reduced power to try and relieve pressure. A small pressure change was noted but still required on person with full force to maintain semi level flight and a non-full nose up pitching. Unable to continue with too strong of pressure on the yoke for PF; the PF conducted a positive control pass to PM and it was accomplished within standards to transfer to right seat to take the aircraft. This was done to also allow for immediate action to [advise ATC]. We ran the QRH which instructed us to use the backup trim which we used however worked intermittently. With the QRH complete we turned back to the airport to land. Approach was conducted using power adjustment to help with pitch control due to little to no pitch control with yoke due to forces. Successful landing was conducted with no further incidents. We were escorted by trucks back to the gate.
ERJ-145 First Officer; while conducting a flight systems check; reported loss of pitch trim authority.