If the visual inspection shows damage to the gear after an unsafe indication, what is your next step?

When a visual inspection reveals damage to the landing gear after receiving an unsafe indication, the appropriate response is to follow the emergency checklist. This checklist is designed to guide pilots through established protocols that ensure safety in response to potential mechanical failures or anomalies. The emergency checklist typically includes steps to assess the situation, verify the condition, and determine if further action, such as returning for an emergency landing, is required.

Adhering to the emergency checklist is crucial for several reasons. It provides a systematic approach to handling the emergency, helps prevent additional damage or complications, and promotes safety for everyone on board and on the ground. The checklist may also include communications with air traffic control and preparing the aircraft for a safe landing, if necessary.

By contrast, ignoring the condition, continuing the flight, or merely reporting to maintenance without engaging with the emergency procedures would not appropriately address the immediate safety risks posed by the potentially damaged landing gear. The emergency checklist ensures that the pilot takes the necessary actions based on the assessment of the situation, ultimately prioritizing safety above all else.