What kind of gear doors does the Pilatus PC-12 NG utilize?

The Pilatus PC-12 NG utilizes retractable gear doors, which is an important feature for enhancing aerodynamics during flight. When the landing gear is extended, the gear doors open to allow the landing gear to come down into position. Once the landing gear is fully deployed, the doors close, streamlining the aircraft and reducing drag during flight.

This retractable design contributes to better performance and efficiency, particularly during cruise phases, as it minimizes disruption to airflow over the aircraft's fuselage. Understanding the operation of these gear doors is critical for pilots, as they need to ensure the mechanism functions correctly during landing gear extension and retraction sequences.

In contrast, fixed gear doors would remain in a stationary position and could create excess drag, while partial gear doors would only cover part of the landing gear, failing to provide the same aerodynamic benefits. Non-retractable gear doors would not serve the purpose of allowing the landing gear to extend or retract, which is not applicable to the Pilatus PC-12 NG.