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Static labelled overviewSelected: Gear Actuator
TAIL CONTROLSWING AND HIGH-LIFT DEVICESLANDING GEARFLIGHT DECK
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Read about Landing-gear retraction actuator

Guided journey

Core airflow: intake to exhaust

Follow the working fluid through the generic two-spool turbofan before tracing the shafts that return turbine work to the compressors and fan.

Step 1 of 8Intake

The intake presents the incoming air to the fan.

Trace the system

What connects to this part?

Select a turbofan flow-path or spool component to show its reviewed upstream and downstream links.

Identify the part

Find it in the model

Test spatial recall with the four reviewed low-pressure-system concepts.

Compare mode

See the difference

Compare where each high-lift device sits and how it changes the wing.

CompareTrailing-edge flapLeading-edge slat
LocationInboard trailing edgeWing leading edge
Primary effectIncreases camber and often areaOpens a slot that delays separation
Exam distinctionAdds substantial lift and dragHelps sustain attached flow at high angle of attack

Reviewed FAA source (2026-09-09)

Landing-gear retraction actuator

A landing-gear retraction actuator supplies the force that moves retractable landing gear between the extended and retracted positions.

Where it is
Connected between the gear mechanism and aircraft structure in the generic transport-aircraft model.
What it does
It converts hydraulic or electrical system power into controlled landing-gear movement.
Relationship
The actuator moves the gear while sequence controls, doors, and locks coordinate and secure the extension or retraction cycle.
Common confusion
The actuator moves the gear but does not itself prove that the gear is locked. Position sensing and locking mechanisms provide that assurance.

Check yourself

Without looking back, can you explain where the landing-gear retraction actuator is, what it does, and which component drives it or is driven by it?

Scope: Generic transport-aircraft teaching model. Reviewed 2026-09-09.

Related concepts

Sources

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