Landing Gear

[Sliding member]

Right then, this has probably been asked before, but why is the landing or alighting gear called so? It obviously goes back to the beggining of flight but surley its always served a pupose on take off. Your answers appreciated! (These thoughts enter my head when I should be drinking!!!)

[BigJETS]

:) because if you think about it, a plane sitting on its belly really isnt going anywhere to begin with.

hmm wonder why the shuttle doesnt launch with gear extended?