How long does the landing gear extension and retraction cycle take?

The landing gear extension and retraction cycle typically takes approximately 7 seconds in many aircraft systems. This duration is a standard operational parameter designed to balance speed and safety during critical phases of flight, namely takeoff and landing. The 7-second time frame allows the landing gear to be deployed or retracted efficiently while ensuring that there is sufficient time for the system to complete the mechanical actions involved, such as locking into place securely. Additionally, this timing supports the need for pilots to manage their aircraft's configuration properly, maintaining awareness of the aircraft's performance and ensuring a stable transition during the gear operation.

In comparison to the other options, the 5 seconds is generally too quick for a complete cycle considering the necessary mechanical movements and checks. A duration of 10 seconds is reasonable but does not align with the standard cycle time seen in many aircraft, while 15 seconds would be unnecessarily lengthy, potentially indicating a malfunction or delay. Understanding this timing is crucial for pilots during flight operations, contributing to their situational awareness and workload management.