As someone who works in aircraft maintenance every day, I’ve learned not to underestimate the role of tires. They’re easy to overlook—until something goes wrong. Aircraft tires handle a huge amount of stress during takeoff, landing, and taxiing. Unlike car tires, they’re not meant to last a long time. They’re built for performance, not longevity, which means regular inspections are critical.
Whether I’m doing a 100-hour inspection or just helping a pilot understand what to look for during preflight, here are the six key things I check when inspecting aircraft tires—and why they matter.
1. Tread Condition
The most basic check is tread depth and wear. Tires with worn-down tread reduce braking effectiveness, especially in wet conditions. I also look for uneven wear, which can indicate issues like misalignment or improper inflation. If one side of the tread is more worn than the other, it usually points to a deeper mechanical issue that needs attention.
2. Cracking and Dry Rot
Rubber naturally breaks down over time, especially with exposure to sun, temperature fluctuations, and environmental conditions. Sidewall cracks, even small ones, can compromise the structural integrity of the tire. I check both sidewalls and tread areas for signs of aging—anything that suggests the rubber is becoming brittle or compromised.
3. Flat Spots
Flat spotting can occur from hard braking or even from sitting stationary under load for too long. These appear as visibly worn or smooth sections of tread. They can create vibration during taxi and affect balance during landing. If I find flat spots that are deep or severe, the tire is typically close to needing replacement.
4. Tire Pressure
Checking pressure is a basic but essential part of every inspection. Aircraft tires are often inflated to high pressures (e.g., 50–120 psi depending on the aircraft), and they can lose pressure from simple temperature changes or slow leaks. I always check pressure when the tires are cold and compare it to the manufacturer’s specs. Even small deviations can lead to uneven wear or increased stress on the casing.
5. Foreign Object Damage (FOD)
Rocks, screws, and other debris on the ramp can puncture or damage tires. I scan the tire surface for embedded objects or cuts that may have gone unnoticed. Even something small can become a problem over time. If anything is found, I’ll inspect further to make sure there’s no leak or damage to the internal structure.
6. Valve Stems and Caps
While small, valve stems are essential. I check that the valve stem isn’t cracked, bent, or leaking, and that it has a proper cap in place. The cap helps keep dirt and moisture out and protects the valve core from corrosion and damage.
Tire inspections don’t take long, but they’re important. Even small issues—low pressure, a hidden crack, or an unnoticed flat spot—can affect the safety and performance of the aircraft.
For pilots, I recommend making tire checks a consistent part of every preflight walkaround. Look for the obvious stuff: low tread, sidewall damage, anything embedded in the rubber. If something seems off, it’s better to have it checked than risk it.
Regular maintenance inspections will cover this in detail, but staying proactive between visits goes a long way in preventing bigger problems down the line.