Maintaining landing gear on aircraft (Aviation Maintenance) (ATA 32) Revision — Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited Occupational Qualification

    This unit identifies the training and development required in order that the apprentice can demonstrate that they are competent inbeing able to carry out maintenance activities on aircraft landing gear, in accordance with the approved aircraft maintenance manual,approved change documentation (service bulletin) and airworthiness requirements. It covers both fixed wing and rotary wingedaircraft, and covers the units and components which provide a means of supporting and steering the aircraft on the ground or water,and which make it possible to retract and store the landing gear in flight (including main gear and nose wheel, tail skid assemblies,brakes, wheels, floats, skids, skis, doors, shock struts, tyres, linkages and indicating and warning systems). The maintenance activities willinclude the removal, fitting and testing of a range of landing gear components. They will be expected to use the approved procedure forcorrectly isolating and, where appropriate, de-pressurising the system, before breaking into the system circuit. They will remove therequired components and fit approved replacements, as appropriate. They will then need to test and adjust the completed system tomeet the aircraft maintenance manual, change documentation (service bulletin) and airworthiness requirements.

    Exam Tips

    Common Mistakes

    Key Marking Points

    Maintaining landing gear on aircraft (Aviation Maintenance) (ATA 32)

    EXCELLENCE-ACHIEVEMENT-AND-LEARNING-LIMITED
    vocational

    This unit covers maintenance activities on aircraft landing gear, including removal, fitting, and testing of components. Learners must follow approved manuals and airworthiness requirements for fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

    0
    Learning Outcomes
    3
    Assessment Guidance
    3
    Key Skills
    1
    Key Terms
    4
    Assessment Criteria

    Assessment criteria

    EAL Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence)

    Topic Overview

    The EAL Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence) is a vocational qualification designed for individuals pursuing a career as aircraft maintenance technicians. It covers the fundamental knowledge and practical skills required to maintain, repair, and certify aircraft in compliance with UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations. This diploma is part of the Design and Technology curriculum, focusing on the application of engineering principles to real-world aviation scenarios.

    Students will explore topics such as aircraft structures, propulsion systems, electrical and electronic systems, and maintenance practices. The qualification emphasises safety, regulatory compliance, and the ability to interpret technical documentation. It is structured to develop competence in both theoretical understanding and hands-on tasks, preparing learners for roles in hangars, workshops, and line maintenance environments.

    This diploma is crucial for those aiming to achieve Part-66 aircraft maintenance licence (AML) categories, as it provides the foundational knowledge required for further certification. It integrates seamlessly with broader engineering and technology studies, offering a clear pathway into the aviation industry. Mastery of this content ensures students can contribute to the safe and efficient operation of aircraft, a critical aspect of modern transportation.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →Airworthiness and Regulatory Framework: Understanding CAA/EASA Part-145 and Part-66 requirements, including the role of the maintenance organisation and licensed engineer.
    • →Aircraft Structures and Materials: Knowledge of metallic and composite materials, corrosion prevention, and structural repair techniques (e.g., riveting, bonding).
    • →Propulsion Systems: Principles of gas turbine and piston engines, including components, operation, and common faults (e.g., compressor surge, oil system failures).
    • →Electrical and Avionic Systems: Basics of AC/DC circuits, wiring practices, and troubleshooting of systems like generators, batteries, and navigation equipment.
    • →Maintenance Practices: Use of technical manuals (e.g., AMM, IPC), tool control, and documentation procedures (e.g., logbook entries, work cards).

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • Correctly isolates and de-pressurises landing gear systems before maintenance.
    • Removes and fits landing gear components following approved procedures.
    • Tests and adjusts the system to meet maintenance manual specifications.
    • Completes documentation and ensures airworthiness compliance.

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Correctly isolates and de-pressurises landing gear systems before maintenance.
    • Removes and fits landing gear components following approved procedures.
    • Tests and adjusts the system to meet maintenance manual specifications.
    • Completes documentation and ensures airworthiness compliance.

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡Always refer to the aircraft maintenance manual.
    • 💡Pay attention to safety warnings and torque values.
    • 💡Document all steps and measurements accurately.
    • 💡Always reference the correct documentation: In exams and practical assessments, explicitly state which manual or regulation you are using (e.g., 'According to AMM Chapter 20'). This shows you understand the regulatory framework.
    • 💡Show your working: For calculations (e.g., torque, load, electrical values), write down each step. Even if the final answer is wrong, partial marks are awarded for correct methodology.
    • 💡Prioritise safety: In any answer, mention safety precautions (e.g., 'Isolate electrical power before working on circuits'). Examiners look for a safety-first mindset, which is critical in aviation maintenance.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Failing to follow correct isolation procedures, risking injury.
    • Using incorrect torque settings or replacement parts.
    • Overlooking inspection requirements for components like tyres and brakes.
    • Misconception: 'If a part looks fine, it doesn't need replacement.' Correction: Many components have mandatory replacement intervals based on flight hours or cycles, regardless of visual condition. Always follow the maintenance schedule.
    • Misconception: 'Torque values are just guidelines.' Correction: Torque is critical for fastener integrity; under- or over-torquing can cause joint failure or structural damage. Use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specified values.
    • Misconception: 'Electrical faults are always due to the component.' Correction: Many faults originate from wiring issues (e.g., chafing, corrosion, poor connections). Always check the entire circuit before replacing components.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • •Basic Engineering Principles: Understanding of physics (forces, motion, energy) and mathematics (algebra, trigonometry) at GCSE level.
    • •Health and Safety Awareness: Knowledge of workplace safety practices, including COSHH, manual handling, and use of PPE.
    • •Introduction to Aircraft Technology: Familiarity with aircraft types, basic components, and the role of maintenance in aviation.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • This unit identifies the training and development required in order that the apprentice can demonstrate that they are competent inbeing able to carry out maintenance activities on aircraft landing gear, in accordance with the approved aircraft maintenance manual,approved change documentation (service bulletin) and airworthiness requirements. It covers both fixed wing and rotary wingedaircraft, and covers the units and components which provide a means of supporting and steering the aircraft on the ground or water,and which make it possible to retract and store the landing gear in flight (including main gear and nose wheel, tail skid assemblies,brakes, wheels, floats, skids, skis, doors, shock struts, tyres, linkages and indicating and warning systems). The maintenance activities willinclude the removal, fitting and testing of a range of landing gear components. They will be expected to use the approved procedure forcorrectly isolating and, where appropriate, de-pressurising the system, before breaking into the system circuit. They will remove therequired components and fit approved replacements, as appropriate. They will then need to test and adjust the completed system tomeet the aircraft maintenance manual, change documentation (service bulletin) and airworthiness requirements.

    Ready to learn?

    AI-powered learning tailored to this unit

    Related Topics in EXCELLENCE-ACHIEVEMENT-AND-LEARNING-LIMITED vocational Design and Technology

    Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)

    View Topic

    Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)

    View Topic

    Advanced Manufacture Techniques – Computer Numerical Control –CNC-

    View Topic

    Advanced Manufacture Techniques – Computer Numerical Control –CNC-

    View Topic