What does the Main Landing Gear do?

• A. Absorbs energy from the air during flight.
• B. Absorbs the energy from ground loads during landing/taxi operations and provides a stable platform for aircraft carrier and shore-based operations.
• C. Provides fuel to the engines.
• D. Controls the landing gear doors.

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how the landing gear manages loads on the ground and keeps the aircraft stable during carrier and ground operations. The main landing gear is designed to absorb the energy from ground loads during touchdown and while taxiing, using its oleo struts and tires to cushion impact and distribute the weight so the airframe isn’t overloaded. This energy absorption is what smooths a landing and prevents excessive bounce, while also supporting the aircraft as it moves on the ground.

On aircraft carriers, the gear also provides a stable platform on the deck and elevators, helping the aircraft sit securely and maneuver safely during catapult launches, arresting gear engagements, and routine deck ops. That stability and load-bearing capacity are the key roles of the main landing gear.

Absorbing energy from air during flight isn’t the function of the landing gear—the airframe and wings handle aerodynamic loads in flight. Providing fuel to the engines belongs to the fuel system, and gear doors are operated by separate mechanisms, not the primary job of the main landing gear.