What is the primary purpose of the landing gear fairing?

The primary purpose of the landing gear fairing is to provide aerodynamic efficiency. Landing gear fairings are designed to streamline the aircraft's shape during flight, which helps reduce drag and improve overall performance. By smoothing out the irregular shape and surface of the landing gear, fairings minimize air resistance as the aircraft moves through the air. This aerodynamic efficiency is crucial for enhancing fuel efficiency and optimizing the flight characteristics of the aircraft.

While the other functions, such as protecting the landing gear from damage or contributing to structural support, are important considerations in the overall design, their primary function is not as focused on aerodynamics. Fairings do not serve to absorb shock; that role is typically fulfilled by the shock struts and other components within the landing gear system. Therefore, the aerodynamic benefits gained from fairings are central to their purpose.