Plain English Meaning

A network inside the aircraft that pushes oil through pipes under pressure to move heavy parts, such as the landing gear or brakes, with much less effort than would be possible by hand or muscle alone.

Full Definition

A hydraulic system is an aircraft system that uses pressurized fluid, typically a specialized hydraulic oil, to transmit force from one point to another in order to operate components such as landing gear, flaps, brakes, and flight controls. The system consists of a reservoir holding the fluid, a pump that pressurizes it, lines that carry the fluid, valves that direct its flow, and actuators that convert fluid pressure into mechanical movement.

Context Anchor

Seen in aircraft systems discussions, checks, , and descriptions for items such as brakes, landing gear, and flight controls.