Why should personnel stay clear of the main landing gear after landing?

Staying clear of the main landing gear after landing is particularly important due to the possibility of brake overheating. Aircraft landing gear utilizes brakes to slow down and stop the aircraft upon touchdown, which generates a significant amount of heat. If personnel are close to the main landing gear, they may be exposed to the risk of burns or other injuries if the brakes are excessively hot.

In addition, brake systems can experience thermal runaway scenarios, where heat accumulation can be significant, leading to potential hazards. Thus, maintaining a safe distance ensures personnel safety and minimizes the risk of accidents that could occur if the brakes were to fail due to overheating.

Understanding this risk highlights the importance of following safety protocols around landing gear, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and distance from the aircraft during the landing roll and right after the aircraft has stopped.