Originally Posted by
Airbubba
I've been told that the gear down over the water policy at NRT comes from some wheel well stowaways falling onto property under the approach path back in the 1970's while local 'activists' were rioting to prevent full operation of the airport. I can't recall ever hearing about ice blocks falling when you put the wheels down on an airliner but I suppose it is possible. It is odd that the NRT gear down restriction doesn't apply when landing to the south.
The restriction is still in effect and appears in the Jepp 34L/R briefing strip. And yes, it is for ice. Years ago, a large chunk of ice dropped from an aircraft on final approach. It went through the roof of the house and killed the head of the house. Culturally this wasnt a good thing. As a result the restrictions were put in place. To this day, there is an observer near the shoreline. Failing to have the gear down, even though it is a long distance away, can lead to a hefty fine.