Although the rubber tyres on an aircraft landing gear are only subject to strong forces briefly, they are significant: taxiing around the airport, on take-off and on landing. That is why we change the wheels on our long-haul aircraft after around 250 flights, which works out at about every six months. The specialists of the SWISS Technical Division do this efficiently and reliably.

"We know we've done our job when an aircraft takes off punctually and in the perfect technical condition."

Employee of the SWISS Technical Division

When the aircraft brakes on landing, this is done mainly with the brakes on the main wheels and by throwing the engines into reverse. Reverse thrust is applied immediately after landing. Depending on the length and condition of the runway (dry, wet, snow-covered, icy), the brakes on the wheels are applied immediately after landing or after a delay. The carbon discs heat up to 300°C. The brakes – which weigh about 130 kg – are replaced before the braking force is reduced by wear. Every two to three years on the long-haul fleet.