Why are hydraulic systems commonly used in landing gear operations?

Hydraulic systems are preferred for landing gear operations primarily because they provide faster and more reliable movement. Hydraulic systems operate by using pressurized fluids to transmit force, which allows for quick actuation of the landing gear. This is crucial in aviation, where timely deployment and retraction of the landing gear can significantly impact safety and performance during takeoff and landing.

The reliability of hydraulic systems is also notable; they are designed to operate under high loads and can function effectively in various environmental conditions, which is essential in aviation. The speed at which hydraulics can operate allows for minimal delay in gear operation, ensuring that the landing gear is fully deployed or retracted when needed.

While other systems, such as electric systems, may offer advantages in weight or power consumption, they typically cannot match the rapid and powerful response provided by hydraulic systems, which is fundamental to the safe operation of an aircraft's landing gear.