Landing Gear Problems…and True Love

Safely navigating a mechanical challenge on a Piper Arrow proves to be an experience.

Les Abend

Friday, November 07, 2025 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

We had to inspect the Piper Arrow's entire landing gear hydraulic system for the issue. [Credit: Les Abend]

Key Takeaways:

A pilot flying a Piper Arrow experienced a landing gear malfunction on approach, requiring the use of the emergency override system to deploy the gear.
Subsequent flight attempts revealed a hydraulic pump cycling issue, leading to the decision to complete the multi-leg journey with the landing gear extended, which severely impacted aircraft performance and comfort.
The root cause was eventually identified as a faulty, out-of-warranty hydraulic power pack, with the pilot reflecting on the differences in handling such emergencies between general aviation and airline operations.

See a mistake? Contact us.

As we approached a 2-mile final for Runway 09 at our fuel stop of Red Wing, Minnesota (KRGK), my hand reached forward in a motion born of habit. With barely a glance, I pinched the lollipop-shaped landing gear handle between two fingers and moved it into the down position while glancing at the amber in-transit light.

It didn’t illuminate. The visceral feel of the wheels thudding into position and the gentle push against the seat belt as the airplane slowed wasn’t happening either.