Revolutionary Tyre Wear Prediction Operating Procedures

Aircraft tyres, crucial for the safe take-off and landing of planes under demanding conditions, typically require replacement after several hundred flights. The rate of tyre wear varies based on factors such as aircraft usage and specific airport conditions, making scheduling replacements a complex task. Unscheduled tyre replacements can cause operational disruptions and inefficiencies.

To address this, JAL and Bridgestone developed operating procedures that predict optimal tyre replacement times. This system integrates JAL's flight data with Bridgestone's tyre expertise and digital prediction technologies. Since May 2020, these procedures have been successfully implemented on regional jet aircraft operated by J-AIR Corporation, JAL’s subsidiary.

Benefits of Scheduled Tyre Replacements

Over four years of application, the scheduled tyre replacement procedures have significantly improved operational efficiency. Key benefits include:

• Lower and Consistent Stock Levels: The prediction technology has enabled better inventory management, reducing the need for large tyre and wheel stocks.
• Reduced CO2 Emissions: Optimising tyre production and use has contributed to sustainability efforts.
• Enhanced Maintenance Quality: Predictive maintenance has improved maintenance quality and reduced unscheduled overtime, reforming maintenance staff workstyles.

Building on this success, JAL and Bridgestone are now applying these advanced procedures to larger aircraft, ensuring the same efficiency and environmental benefits.

Continued Collaboration and Future Goals

Both companies are committed to continuing their collaboration, leveraging their combined expertise to create new value and advance the aviation industry.

Ryo Tamura, Director, Managing Executive Officer and Senior Vice President of Engineering and Maintenance at JAL, stated:

“This initiative, which may seem simple at first glance but is actually a very challenging endeavour, represents one of the most significant examples of digital transformation (DX) within our company. We are deeply grateful for Bridgestone's expertise and the application of their digital technologies, which have greatly contributed to improving and streamlining our work environment, as well as enhancing safety and security. Looking ahead, we will continue to advance the collaboration between our two companies, creating new value and contributing to the development of aviation technology and society.”

Nobuyuki Tamura, Vice President and Senior Officer, G-MICA (Global Mining, Industrial, Construction, and Aviation Tyre Solutions Business) at Bridgestone, added:

“We are delighted to contribute to maximising the productivity and economic value of tyre replacement operations, as well as to sustainability, by combining the real insights and learnings gained from value co-creation with JAL's on-site staff with digital technologies. Moving forward, we will continue to amplify social and customer value based on the co-creation between our two companies and remain committed to the 'Efficiency,' 'Ecology,' and 'Empowerment' pillars outlined in our corporate commitment, the 'Bridgestone E8 Commitment.'"

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