EMB-170 flight crew reported landing gear would not retract after takeoff. The flight crew went into holding until fuel was burned to below maximum landing weight; then made a precautionary landing at departure airport.
Synopsis
EMB-170 flight crew reported landing gear would not retract after takeoff. The flight crew went into holding until fuel was burned to below maximum landing weight; then made a precautionary landing at departure airport.
Narrative
After takeoff; the landing gear would not retract. We pulled out the Quick Reference Handbook; which directed us to establish and communicate a plan. We also noticed we were above the landing weight limitation and so we entered a hold over ZZZ VOR; started the APU; and discussed what our plan of action would be. We also addressed the passengers and informed the Flight Attendants and Dispatch as to our status and plan of action. Once we were below certified maximum landing weight we returned to our departure airport and landed. During the landing phase; we noted that the nose wheel shimmied horribly. Once we decelerated the airplane and attempted to turn off of the runway the steering mechanism felt abnormal. ATC had [assigned priority handling] and had rolled Crash Fire Rescue. We stopped on the runway and had them inspect the aircraft. The fireman who greeted us informed us that the nose wheel tire appeared tilted to the left. We then requested a tow from both Company Operations and called Maintenance Control to have them bring out a tow and mechanics. Under direct verbal communication with Maintenance Control we were asked do activate nose wheel steering and see if it would turn. The fireman outside the aircraft said it would turn to the left but not to the right. Shortly; after this 2 mechanics and a tow met us on the runway and towed us into the gate.
Second reporter narrative
Landing gear lever would not move up after takeoff from ZZZ. Held until Quick Reference Handbook actions were complete and below max landing weight before returning to ZZZ. On landing we felt the aircraft shimmy/veer to the left so we remained on the runway with the concurrence of ATC and waited for a tug to tow us to our gate.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.