What is the maximum speed for emergency gear extension?

• A. 120 knots
• B. 180 knots
• C. 140 knots
• D. 200 knots

Answer: (A)

Emergency gear extension is a backup deployment method that must work reliably without the full hydraulic system. It relies on a simpler mechanism that needs low airloads to complete, extend, and lock the gear properly. At higher speeds, the increased ram air pressure and forces on the doors and gear can prevent full extension or cause doors to jam, potentially leaving the gear not down and locked when you need it. To ensure a safe, reliable extension under those conditions, the aircraft specifies a maximum speed for emergency gear deployment. For this airplane, that limit is 120 knots, so keeping below that speed gives the mechanism time and reduced loads to properly deploy and secure the gear.