Boeing begins 787 gear testing

Published 2:36 pm Monday, August 11, 2008

The Boeing Co. has begun gear swing testing on its new 787 Dreamliner. The tests imitate operating the jet’s landing gear as if the 787 were in flight.

During testing, the 787’s landing gear swings into a stowed position and back down to the landing position. The action starts in the flight deck but demonstrates that the 787’s avionics, power system and hydraulic system are working together properly.

Boeing said the three gear – nose, main left and main gear right – were tested both independently and jointly. The company will continue testing.

Boeing intends to put the first 787 Dreamliner in flight by the end of 2008.