A320 flight crew reported diverting to an alternate airport after experiencing a landing gear door malfunction.
Synopsis
A320 flight crew reported diverting to an alternate airport after experiencing a landing gear door malfunction.
Narrative
On approach; just after gear extension; received a 'LDG GEAR' ECAM; showing the gear was down; but the gear doors were stuck in the open position. There was also a 'STEERING' warning. I broke off the approach and continued over the airport; asking ATC to visually confirm if the doors were open. They so confirmed. We requested delaying vectors while we worked through the ECAM and QRH checklists and attempted to contact Dispatch and/or Maintenance to consult with them. Using all available methods; we were unable to make contact (until later; on the descent into ZZZ). After completing the checklists - and taking note of the tremendous fuel burn associated with flying with the gear doors open - we reviewed our options. We did not think it advisable to land in our present configuration; nor to attempt landing at ZZZ1; when ZZZ was close by. ZZZ has much longer runways; better CFR (Crash Fire Rescue) and more available medical facilities; should they be required. I elected to [advise ATC] and requested a diversion to ZZZ. Upon that decision being made; we raised the gear; climbed to 10;000 ft. and proceeded to ZZZ. Although the gear retracted normally; the 'STEERING' warning remained; which indicated to me that the problem; whatever it was; was not entirely resolved. I briefed the passengers via the PA; and told the FAs (Flight Attendants) to prepare for a precautionary landing in ZZZ. On the approach into ZZZ; we re-extended the gear and as hoped; it extended normally. The 'STEERING' ECAM also disappeared after gear extension. ECAM 'Recall' then indicated 'Normal'. We had planned to fly by the ZZZ Tower for visual inspection; but with the normal indications; we asked Tower for a visual check while we were still on approach and Tower said that all appeared normal to them. We elected to proceed with the landing and were cleared for the option. Landed normally. Nosewheel steering worked normally; so we cleared the runway and had CFR look the aircraft over to make sure there was no visible damage. There was not; so we taxied to the gate. ZZZ Maintenance met the aircraft and electronically confirmed the previous gear malfunction. The aircraft was taken out of service by ZZZ Maintenance.Mechanical and/or electronic failure; possibly transient in natureI would like to know why the 'Crew Phone' did not work on this aircraft; why we were unable to contact Dispatch or Maintenance Control.
Second reporter narrative
ECAM landing gear down door unlock and steering inop. [Requested priority handling with ATC]. Diverted to ZZZ.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.