In the landing gear retraction sequence, what happens immediately after uplocks engage to lock the gear in the stowed position?

• A. Doors begin to open.
• B. Hydraulic pressure is applied to retract the gear.
• C. Gear fully retracts into the well.
• D. Doors close for streamlining.

Answer: (D)

After the uplocks engage and lock the gear in the stowed position, the doors close for streamlining. This final step seals the wheel wells, creating a smooth aerodynamic profile and protecting the retracted gear from debris and weather. The doors open earlier in the sequence to allow the gear to retract, and hydraulic pressure is used during the actual retraction phase; once the gear is up and secured by the uplocks, closing the doors is what finishes the retraction and reduces drag. If the doors stayed open, drag would increase and the gear could be more exposed to the elements or debris.