For the sake of argument, let's say that it was a malfunction. How then does it work good when they finally make the approach the second time. Also, if they were having gear trouble, why didn't the crew declare?

In my airplane, it is very obvious when the gear drops out. The three greens confirm it but I also hear it pop out with increased wind noise and noticable drag.

I am waiting to read about this one in more detail.

I am loathe to 'Monday morning quarterback' but things don't add up.

My .02