The wheel is locked in-line with fuselage for takeoff and unlocked for landing allowing it to swivel ______ for ______.

• A. Locked in-line for takeoff and swivels freely for taxiing
• B. Locked in-line for takeoff and locked for taxiing
• C. Unlocked for takeoff and unlocked for taxiing
• D. Free swiveling always

Answer: (A)

The test is about how landing gear wheels are locked or unlocked to provide stability during takeoff and to enable steering on the ground. When the aircraft powers up for takeoff, the wheel is locked in-line with the fuselage so it cannot swivel; this keeps the wheel aligned with the airplane’s axis, reducing the chance of unwanted yaw or shimmy as speed builds. Once on the ground and preparing to maneuver, the wheel is unlocked to allow it to swivel freely, or caster, which helps with steering and turning during taxiing.

So the best choice states that the wheel remains locked in-line for takeoff and swivels freely for taxiing. The other options would either prevent needed steering on the ground, allow unsafe movement during takeoff, or keep the wheel constantly loose, which could lead to instability.