As your flight approaches the airport, the hydraulics sound from landing gear lowering provides reassurance. But as the plane touches down, an unexpected jolt and passengers’ squeals dash your calm. The plane’s forceful impact with the ground has resulted in what’s commonly referred to as a “hard landing,” and it’s considered to be a frequent incident. Every pilot will experience at least one hard landing during the course of his career.

Whether due to meteorological conditions, mechanical problems, being overweight, or pilot error, a hard landing can vary in seriousness from mild passenger discomfort to extensive damage to the aircraft. When a hard landing occurs, the airplane must be taken out of service and checked for structural damage before it’s allowed to fly again. At Bombardier Aerospace, this is where the ground support equipment team comes in.

 …