Maintaining Your Wings: Navigating FAA Landing Gear Regulations for Piston Aircraft
The landing gear of any aircraft, especially single-engine and twin-piston models, is subjected to immense stresses during every takeoff, landing, and taxiing operation. It’s not just a set of wheels; it’s a complex system of struts, linkages, hydraulics, and electrical components that bears the entire weight of the aircraft and absorbs significant impact.1 Ensuring its impeccable condition is paramount to flight safety, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has stringent regulations in place to guarantee just that. Understanding these regulations is crucial for every piston aircraft owner and operator.
The Foundation: 14 CFR Part 43 and 91.409
At the core of FAA maintenance regulations are 14 CFR Part 43, which outlines the rules for maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, and alteration, and 14 CFR 91.409, which specifies inspection requirements. For piston-powered aircraft, the most common inspection is the Annual Inspection, required every 12 calendar months. If the aircraft is operated for hire, a 100-hour inspection is also mandated. These inspections are not just cursory glances; they are thorough examinations designed to ensure the aircraft meets all applicable airworthiness requirements.
Deep Dive: Landing Gear Inspection Requirements
Appendix D to Part 43 provides a comprehensive list of items to be included in Annual and 100-hour inspections.2 When it comes to the landing gear group, the regulations demand a detailed inspection of the following components:
- All Units: Thoroughly checked for poor condition and insecurity of attachment. This includes the main gear, nose gear, and any auxiliary gear.
- Shock Absorbing Devices: Inspected for proper oleo fluid levels and any signs of leaks or damage.3 Proper inflation and cleanliness of pistons are also critical.
- Linkages, Trusses, and Members: Examined for undue or excessive wear, fatigue, and distortion. This includes checking for loose or missing rivets and screws, and ensuring proper bolt torque.
- Retracting and Locking Mechanism: Tested for improper operation. This includes checking the functionality of uplocks, downlocks, and any associated cables and springs for fraying, corrosion, or elongation of holes.
- Hydraulic Lines: Inspected for leakage, chafing, and improper condition or looseness.4 The hydraulic fluid level must also be checked.
- Electrical System: Checked for chafing and improper operation of switches, including warning system micro switches (squat switches) for cleanliness and security. Landing gear position indicators and warning horn systems must be verified.
- Wheels: Inspected for cracks, defects, and the condition of bearings.5 Bearings should be properly greased to prevent corrosion.
- Tires: Checked for wear, cuts, proper inflation, and any sidewall damage.6
- Brakes: Inspected for proper adjustment, wear and condition of brake pads and discs, and correct brake fluid level.
- Floats and Skis (if applicable): Inspected for insecure attachment and obvious defects.7
Beyond these specific points, the regulation emphasizes that the inspection must ensure the overall airframe structure to which the landing gear is attached is free from distortion, cracks, and other signs of distress. Mechanics must utilize manufacturer’s recommendations and the aircraft’s maintenance manual as the primary guide for specific procedures, tolerances, and service limits.
Repairs: Adhering to Approved Data
When discrepancies are found during an inspection, repairs must be performed in accordance with FAA-approved data. This means using methods and materials that are either specified by the aircraft manufacturer, outlined in an Airworthiness Directive (AD), or approved by the FAA through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) or a Field Approval. Attempting repairs without proper documentation or expertise can compromise the aircraft’s airworthiness and lead to serious safety concerns. This commitment to approved data reflects the FAA’s authority in maintaining the highest safety standards in aviation.
Beyond the Regulations: Best Practices and Proactive Maintenance
While FAA regulations set the minimum standard, experienced mechanics and prudent operators go above and beyond. Proactive maintenance is key to preventing landing gear issues.8 This includes:
- Frequent Visual Inspections: Pilots should incorporate thorough landing gear checks into their pre-flight inspections, looking for obvious leaks, damage, or foreign object debris.
- Lubrication: Regular lubrication of all moving parts, as per manufacturer’s instructions, is vital to prevent wear and corrosion.9
- Corrosion Prevention: Landing gear components are highly susceptible to corrosion due to environmental exposure.10 A robust corrosion prevention and control program is essential.
- Attention to Detail: Even seemingly minor issues, like a dirty switch or a slightly bent gear door, can escalate into major problems.
- Understanding Common Failure Modes: Familiarity with common landing gear failure modes, such as wear and tear, environmental damage, and hydraulic system issues, allows for targeted inspections and preventative measures.11
The importance of consistent, high-quality maintenance cannot be overstated. We’ve seen firsthand how adherence to strict inspection schedules and attention to detail can prevent costly repairs and, more importantly, safeguard lives.
The Aero Center: Your 24/7 Partner in Airworthiness
At The Aero Center, we understand the critical nature of landing gear maintenance for your piston aircraft. We are committed to providing unparalleled service and expertise, ensuring your aircraft is always in peak condition. What truly sets us apart is our unique offering as the only 24/7 maintenance center in the region, serving California, Arizona, and Nevada. This commitment means significantly reduced airplane downtime for you, getting you back in the air faster and safer.
Our team of experienced and certified aviation mechanics specializes in single-engine and twin-piston aircraft, possessing in-depth knowledge of FAA regulations and manufacturer specifications. We pride ourselves on our meticulous inspection processes, comprehensive repair capabilities, and dedication to upholding the highest standards of safety and airworthiness.
Trust The Aero Center with your landing gear inspections and repairs. We’re here to ensure your peace of mind, round the clock.
Footnotes:
- Federal Aviation Administration. 14 CFR Part 43 – Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Rebuilding, and Alteration.12 Retrieved from https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-43
- Federal Aviation Administration. 14 CFR 91.409 – Inspections. Retrieved from https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-F/part-91/subpart-E/section-91.409
- Federal Aviation Administration. Appendix D to Part 43—Scope and Detail of Items (as Applicable to the Particular Aircraft) To Be Included in Annual and 100-Hour Inspections. Retrieved from https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/appendix-D_to_part_43
- Federal Aviation Administration. Advisory Circular 20-34D – Landing Gear Safety. Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC20-34D.pdf
The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.