Definition
The specific items on the airplane's landing gear that a pilot examines during a preflight walkaround, including tire condition and inflation, brake assemblies, hydraulic lines, gear struts, wheel fairings, and the security and condition of the gear attachment points.
Plain English
The list of things to look at on the wheels and legs of the airplane before flight, such as tires, brakes, struts, and any leaks, to make sure the gear is in good shape for takeoff and landing.
Context Anchor
Used during the preflight walk-around, especially when inspecting the tires, brakes, struts, and landing gear area before the airplane is moved.
Derivation
In aviation, gear means equipment, not a car transmission. Landing gear means the equipment that supports the airplane on the ground and during landing. A checkpoint is a specific place or item you stop and check, so the phrase points to the exact landing gear items that need attention during preflight.
Why Pilots Care
Overlooking damage or improper condition at these points can lead to gear failure during takeoff or landing.
Intuition Check
Do not treat these checkpoints as a quick glance at the tires only. They are a deliberate check of the landing gear area, including support, braking, and visible condition.
Example Sentence 1
During preflight, the pilot worked through the landing gear inspection checkpoints, looking at tire wear, strut extension, and brake line condition on each wheel.
Example Sentence 2
A thorough preflight includes verifying no fluid leaks at the landing gear inspection checkpoints on both main wheels.