Which emergency gear extension method does not require external power?

• A. Free-fall
• B. Mechanical
• C. Alternate hydraulic
• D. Compressed air

Answer: (A)

In emergency gear extension, the method that needs no power source at all is gravity-driven extension. Free-fall uses the weight of the gear to drop into position once the uplock is released, so no electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic power is required from the aircraft. The other options rely on some form of energy source: alternate hydraulic needs hydraulic pressure to push the gear out, compressed air uses stored air pressure, and mechanical extension typically requires manual effort or stored energy to drive the gear outward. Since the question asks for the method that does not require external power, gravity-driven free-fall is the best choice.