Summary
- The landing gear is one of the most vital components of an aircraft, as it supports its weight on the ground, allows it to taxi, take off, and land, and acts as a mid-air brake in case of emergency.
- Modern commercial aircraft have two landing gear types: the main landing gear and the nose gear. The former is found under the aircraft center of gravity, and it absorbs most of the aircraft weight upon landing.
- A fundamental component of a landing gear are the brakes. These can overheat and cause an engine fire if the aircraft lands flapless or at a higher speed.