I agree with OddJob1952--they should have landed--at the nearset suitable destination [same sentiment with the BA 3/4 xing] AND NOT RETRACTED the GEAR!!!!
as other have said what if it wouldn't redeploy---or the hydaulic motors remained energized leading to an overheat or total failure ? the only thing thats hould be considered by FD is the approach plate back!!
and since they were subject to the FARs at the time they definitely should have landed as we make no distiction as to the nature or inconvience of landing with a failure---- only that you are to land at the
nearest suitable airport--and I don't care if it's an airbus or a stearman---land!!!
if it not on the approved MEL or CDL then you land---get ferry a waiver if you will---but again Land!!
I guess the undercariage is just not that critical
PA