A_Because

I've gotten the actuators to trigger when on the disconnected part without craft switching, but weird probe core and action group shenanigans were involved. So generally, this is the best way.

You can make them without switching craft. Both of the ones I uploaded, plus I think Servo's F-35, have actuators that allow the hinges to pivot without any craft switching shenanigans. Airbrakes are what I use, but I think you can use landing gear too.

Woah, perfect timing. I've just made some VTOLs this weekend. Here's one: There's a whole album of this craft here, and the craft file at KerbalX: Raven Mk-1 I also made this one based on similar principles: Here's a link to that one's album, but I haven't made a GIF of it. The download: Crow Mk-1