Landing gear is crucial for airplanes, as it enables safe takeoffs and landings by providing necessary support and stability. It absorbs the impact during landing, maintains balance on the ground, and allows smooth taxiing. Without it, landing and ground operations would be extremely hazardous and impractical. If you are interested in learning how to become a flight dispatcher, you are going to need to learn about the different parts of an aircraft and how they interact with each other. Continue reading below to learn more about the parts of aircraft landing gear.
Parts of Landing Gear of Aircraft
The parts of aircraft landing gear make up a complex system of numerous components designed to support the aircraft during takeoff, landing, and ground operations. Some of the key components of landing gear include the following:
- Landing gear struts – These are the main structural components that connect the aircraft’s fuselage to the wheels. They absorb the impact of landing and provide flexibility during taxiing.
- Wheels and tires – The wheels allow the aircraft to move on the ground during taxiing, takeoff, and landing. Tires are designed to withstand heavy loads and high speeds, ensuring safe ground operations.
- Brakes – The brakes are attached to the landing gear and controlled by the pilot. They are essential for slowing down the aircraft after touchdown and during taxiing, ensuring it stops safely on the runway.
- Shock absorbers – Incorporated within the landing gear struts, shock absorbers are hydraulic or pneumatic devices that dampen the impact forces during landing, preventing damage to the aircraft structure.
- Retraction Mechanism – Many modern aircraft have retractable landing gear to reduce drag during flight, improving aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. This mechanism allows the landing gear to be stowed inside the aircraft’s fuselage or wings after takeoff.
- Doors and fairings – Landing gear doors cover and protect the retracted landing gear when not in use. Fairings are aerodynamic covers that streamline the landing gear components during flight.
- Hydraulic system – Most landing gear systems are operated hydraulically, using fluid pressure to extend or retract the gear. Hydraulic systems are reliable and provide the necessary force for smooth operation.
- Locking mechanism – When the landing gear is fully extended or retracted, a locking mechanism ensures it stays securely in place during flight or ground operations.
- Indicator lights – Aircraft have lights to indicate the status of the landing gear. Green lights show that the gear is safely locked in the down position, while red lights indicate an unsafe condition, such as partial or full gear retraction.
- Landing gear control systems – The pilot uses a control lever or switch in the cockpit to operate the landing gear. Depending on the aircraft’s complexity, the system may be manually operated or automatic.
How Does The Aircraft Landing Gear Brake System Work?
The aircraft landing gear brake system uses hydraulic pressure to apply friction between brake pads and the wheels. Pilots activate the brakes through the cockpit’s control system, slowing down the aircraft during landing and taxiing on the runway.
Are There Different Aircraft Landing Gear Designs?
Yes, there are various aircraft landing gear designs, including tricycle, taildragger, tandem, and retractable configurations. Tricycle gear is most common, with a nose wheel and two main wheels, while taildraggers have two main wheels and a tail wheel. Retractable gear can retract into the aircraft to reduce drag during flight.
More About Sheffield School of Aeronautics
Aside from detailing aircraft landing gear components, Sheffield School of Aeronautics is a flight dispatcher school that can help you or a loved one receive their dispatcher certification and other programs like ETOPS training. To learn more about flight dispatcher training and how you could go on your way to earning a flight dispatcher salary, do not hesitate to contact us today.
