What type of landing gear configuration is most common for commercial jets?

The most common landing gear configuration for commercial jets is the tricycle type. This design features three wheels, with two located at the front and one at the rear. This configuration provides several advantages that make it the preferred choice for commercial aircraft.

One key benefit of the tricycle landing gear is improved stability during takeoff and landing. The forward positioning of the two wheels helps to prevent nose-over accidents and facilitates better control during ground operations. Additionally, this layout allows for a lower angle of attack during landings, which enhances aerodynamic efficiency and visibility for pilots.

In contrast, the tailwheel configuration, which has two wheels at the front and one at the rear, is less stable on the ground and is more commonly found on smaller aircraft or vintage planes. Fixed landing gear, while more straightforward in design, typically adds aerodynamic drag, which is less desirable for commercial jets that require efficient performance. Hybrid configurations can exist, but they are not as widely utilized as the tricycle setup in the commercial aviation sector.

The tricycle arrangement's superior ground handling and overall stability characteristics make it the standard for commercial jets, aligning it with safety and operational efficiency goals.