During a preflight check, which outcome verifies that the landing gear will function properly in flight?

• A. That the gear will extend and lock, with no detectable leaks or mechanical issues.
• B. A stable hydraulic pressure reading in all circuits.
• C. The tires are within recommended inflation.
• D. The landing gear doors show no exterior damage.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that the landing gear must actually extend and lock properly to ensure it will function in flight. When the gear extends from the nacelle or fuselage and comes to a solid, locked position, you’re confirming that the actuator, gear door interfaces, and uplock mechanism are all operating as designed and capable of withstanding the loads on landing. The absence of leaks around the gear system reinforces that the hydraulic circuit can hold pressure and deliver the necessary force without fluid loss. While a stable hydraulic pressure reading might indicate the system is pressurized, it doesn’t prove the gear will extend, lock, and retract reliably if a mechanical fault or binding occurs. Tires and exterior door condition are important for overall safety, but they don’t verify the gear’s ability to deploy and lock in flight. So, extending, locking, and showing no leaks or mechanical issues is the strongest confirmation the gear will function properly in flight.