What Happens When an Airplane Tire Burst During Landing

The Immediate Effects

Loss of Control

When an airplane tire bursts during landing, it can cause a sudden loss of pressure, leading to the aircraft veering to one side. Pilots are trained to quickly counteract this by adjusting control inputs. This immediate reaction is crucial to prevent the aircraft from going out of control.

Vibration and Noise

Following the tire burst, the aircraft will experience significant vibrations and noise. These can be alarming for passengers and crew. However, maintaining composure and focusing on the task at hand is critical.

Possible Damage

Depending on the aircraft type, debris from the burst can potentially damage the wheel well brakes or other components of the landing gear. This highlights the importance of thorough post-landing inspections to ensure the safety of future operations.

Pilot Response

Maintain Control

The pilot's primary focus is on maintaining control of the aircraft. Techniques such as differential braking or thrust vectoring may be used to stabilize the descent and ensure a safe landing.

Emergency Procedures

Pilots are trained to follow specific emergency procedures for tire bursts. These can include aborting the landing if the situation is severe. Diverting to another airport may also be necessary if the conditions are too critical.

Post-Landing Actions

Once the aircraft has landed safely, it is inspected for any damage to the landing gear, brakes, and other systems. The damaged tire is then replaced, ensuring the aircraft can return to service.

Case Study: A Real-life Scenario

Not all tire bursts are handled in a textbook manner. During a twin endorsement flight in a Beechcraft Duchess, the pilot faced a real-life scenario involving a tire burst. While practicing a simulated engine failure landing, the left main tire blew, causing the plane to veer left. Despite the instructor yelling, the pilot applied right rudder and right brake, but the plane continued veering off the runway.

The incident concluded with a 30-meter roll off the runway before finally stopping. Though no aircraft damage was reported, one runway light was broken, and the experience left both the pilot and instructor exhilarated. Repairing the aircraft and changing the tire required a L.A.M.E. (Line Maintenance and Emergency) check and a plane jacking process. The sheer adrenaline rush from the incident is still remembered vividly as a crucial learning moment.

Conclusion

Despite the potential risks, modern aircraft are designed to handle sudden tire bursts, and pilot training ensures effective emergency responses. The safety of the aircraft and its passengers remains the top priority. Such events serve as a valuable reminder of the importance of thorough emergency training and the resilience of aviation systems.