10
$\begingroup$

The B737 has no cover on its landing gear, as may be seen in this picture. Doesn't this increase the air drag?

enter image description here

Almost all other airliners have doors that close off the rubber of the wheels, for example this B787.

enter image description here

Why doesn't the B737 have a cover on its landing gear?

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
2
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ @anshabhi Thanks for the edits $\endgroup$
    – Ethan
    Commented Aug 8, 2015 at 15:51
  • $\begingroup$ The 737's hubcap is its landing gear door. $\endgroup$
    – Vikki
    Commented Dec 10, 2018 at 4:05

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
13
$\begingroup$

Yes, it does increase drag. Anything that is not smooth, where the air flow will be disturbed, will generate drag.

The 737 was originally designed only for short haul and space is at a premium. Adding doors and all the associated mechanisms adds complexity, weight, additional maintenance requirements and more possibilities for failure.

Boeing have had many opportunities to add doors and have chosen not to; so they, and their customers, do not see the drag penalty as more expensive than the extra weight and maintenance.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .