Aircraft Landing Gear – Types, Parts and Working (Complete Guide)

 Aircraft Landing Gear – Types, Parts and Working (Complete Guide)

Introduction

Aircraft landing gear is one of the most important systems of an aircraft. It supports the aircraft during landing, takeoff, and taxiing. The landing gear absorbs shock during landing and provides stability while the aircraft is on the ground.

Without landing gear, safe landing and ground movement would not be possible.

What is Aircraft Landing Gear?

Aircraft landing gear is a structural system that includes wheels, shock absorbers, brakes, and supporting structures. It helps the aircraft to:

Land safely

Taxi on runway

Park on ground

Absorb landing impact

Main Parts of Aircraft Landing Gear

1️⃣ Shock Strut (Oleo Strut)

Absorbs landing impact using hydraulic fluid and compressed air.

2️⃣ Wheels and Tires

Support aircraft weight and allow movement on runway.

3️⃣ Braking System

Helps slow down aircraft during landing.

4️⃣ Retraction Mechanism

Used in retractable landing gear to fold wheels inside aircraft body after takeoff.

5️⃣ Actuators

Hydraulic actuators move landing gear up and down.

Types of Aircraft Landing Gear

1️⃣ Tricycle Landing Gear

One nose wheel

Two main wheels

Most modern aircraft use this type.

Advantages: Better control and stability.

2️⃣ Tailwheel Landing Gear

Two main wheels

One small wheel at tail

Mostly used in older aircraft.

3️⃣ Fixed Landing Gear

Always visible

Simple design

Used in small aircraft.

4️⃣ Retractable Landing Gear

Folds inside fuselage

Reduces air drag

Used in commercial aircraft.

Working of Aircraft Landing Gear

During takeoff, landing gear supports aircraft weight.

After takeoff, hydraulic system retracts gear (if retractable type).

During landing, gear extends before touchdown.

Shock strut absorbs landing impact.

Brakes slow down aircraft.

Importance of Landing Gear

Ensures safe landing

Absorbs heavy impact

Provides directional control

Supports aircraft on ground

Conclusion

Aircraft landing gear is a critical safety system in aviation. It supports aircraft weight, absorbs landing shocks, and ensures safe ground operations. Proper inspection and maintenance of landing gear is essential for flight safety.

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