When at a High Key position, what should the gear state be?

When at a High Key position during an aviation maneuver, the appropriate gear state is gear down. This configuration is essential for a few reasons.

Firstly, being at High Key typically indicates that the aircraft is in a position where it is preparing for a landing approach or a controlled descent. Having the landing gear down increases aerodynamic drag and assists in reducing the altitude more effectively, which is integral to maintaining control and ensuring the aircraft can transition smoothly into the landing phase.

Secondly, the deployment of the gear serves as a visual cue to the pilot that they are committed to landing. It is a critical part of the landing checklist that ensures the aircraft is properly configured before descending further. This helps in achieving the necessary safety protocols and maintaining optimal performance during the approach.

In contrast, having the gear up or in transition would not only inhibit the correct aerodynamic characteristics needed for a stable descent but also pose a risk of being unprepared for landing. Hence, the correct state for the gear when at High Key is to have it down, ready for the landing sequence.