Michelin says the aircraft industry is slowly coming around to the idea of radial tyres - as opposed to the older bias type - on its aircraft as they look to cut weight and save fuel.
The French firm is one of two tyre suppliers to Boeing's new 787 Dreamliner as well as standard fit on Embraer's 190 regional jet. Dave Barraco, global marketing and communications manager, says that the radial tyres fitted to the E190 save around 26kg (57lb) per set and are more durable than the previous generation of tyres.
He estimates that they will manage double the number of landings than the older design. He adds: "Radial tyres are much better for this application: they give lower fuel burn rates and fewer tyre changes as well.
"We are hoping that there will be a big shift in the marketplace, both from the airframers and the airlines themselves.
"It is slowly gaining momentum but we think the industry sees the advantages and we feel we are the leader in the radial field."
Source: Flight Daily News
