Runway Ready: Tyres for Airport Ground Support Vehicles

 

Runway Ready: Tyres for Airport Ground Support Vehicles

Airports are some of the busiest workplaces on Earth. Behind every takeoff and landing, there is a network of support equipment working tirelessly to keep the aviation world moving smoothly. These machines are collectively known as Ground Support Equipment (GSE) — baggage tractors, aircraft tugs, fuel trucks, catering trucks, passenger stairs, ground power units, loaders, and firefighting vehicles.

While aircraft tyres often get the spotlight, the tyres on GSE vehicles are just as critical. Without reliable tyres, airport operations could grind to a halt — baggage might not be delivered on time, refueling could be delayed, or aircraft might not be pushed back from the gate.

This blog takes a deep dive into GSE tyres:

By the end, you’ll understand how tyres form an invisible but indispensable backbone of airport efficiency and safety.

 

Elaboration

1. Why Tyres Are Vital for Airport Ground Support Equipment

Ground support vehicles operate in unique conditions:

·         They must move heavy loads (like fully fueled aircraft weighing hundreds of tons).

·         They run short but frequent trips on tarmac, concrete, and sometimes rough ground.

·         They need precise maneuverability in tight airport spaces.

·         They face exposure to extreme weather, jet fuel spills, hydraulic oils, and heat.

Because of this, GSE tyres must be:

·         Durable – resisting cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure.

·         High load-bearing – capable of supporting enormous weights.

·         Reliable – zero tolerance for sudden failures during critical operations.

 

2. Common Ground Support Vehicles and Their Tyre Needs

Airports use a wide range of GSE, and each has its specific tyre requirements:

·         Aircraft Tugs / Pushback Tractors
Heavy-duty machines that push and tow aircraft. Require tyres with high load ratings.

·         Baggage Tractors
Smaller but highly maneuverable, often pulling multiple luggage carts. Need tyres that balance traction and longevity.

·         Fuel Trucks & Catering Trucks
Built on commercial truck chassis, using tyres similar to medium-duty truck tyres.

·         Passenger Stairs & Belt Loaders
Require stable tyres with good sidewall strength to handle uneven loading.

·         Fire and Rescue Vehicles
Specialized tyres capable of high speeds and emergency response in all weather conditions.

 

3. Tyre Sizes Commonly Used in Airport GSE

Unlike aircraft tyres, GSE tyres come in a mix of industrial, OTR (off-the-road), and commercial truck tyre sizes. Here’s a breakdown of common sizes:

 

•  
•  
• Baggage Tractors & Belt Loaders
• 6.50-10
• 7.00-12
• 7.50-15
• 8.25-15
• Fuel Trucks & Catering Trucks
• 9.00R20
• 10.00R20
• 11R22.5
• 295/80R22.5
• Passenger Buses (Airport Shuttles)
• 275/70R22.5
• 315/80R22.5
• Firefighting & Emergency Vehicles
• 14.00R20
• 16.00R20
• 395/85R20

 

4. Leading Manufacturers of GSE Tyres

Many global tyre companies produce tyres suited for airport ground vehicles. Major players include:

·         Michelin – Supplies OTR and truck tyres for aircraft tugs, buses, and rescue vehicles.

·         Goodyear – Strong presence in both GSE and aviation tyre segments.

·         Continental – Provides high-performance truck and industrial tyres for airport applications.

·         Bridgestone – Leading supplier of heavy-duty tyres for pushback tractors and fuel trucks.

·         Trelleborg—Known for industrial solid tyres used in belt loaders and baggage tractors.

·         Mitas (part of the Yokohama group)—Popular for forklift and baggage tractor tyres.

·         CEAT Specialty (India)—Growing presence in OTR and GSE tires.

·         BKT (Balkrishna Tyres) – Provides specialized tyres for loaders and tugs.

 

5. Key Challenges in GSE Tyre Usage

·         Short, frequent trips lead to irregular wear.

·         Heavy loads cause heat build-up and sidewall stress.

·         Chemical spills (fuel, oils, and de-icing fluids) accelerate tyre damage.

·         Operational downtime from a single tyre failure can delay multiple flights.

 

6. Best Practices for GSE Tyre Maintenance

·         Daily inspections for cuts, cracks, and pressure.

·         Tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) to prevent under-inflation.

·         Rotation and balancing to extend tyre life.

·         Using retread tyres where suitable, especially for baggage tractors.

·         Training operators on safe handling to minimize tyre abuse.

 

7. Future of GSE Tyres

With sustainability becoming a priority in aviation, tyre manufacturers are working on:

·         Longer-lasting compounds to reduce waste.

·         Retreading programs for heavy-duty tyres.

·         Airless tyres for baggage tractors and loaders to avoid punctures.

·         Smart tyres equipped with IoT sensors to monitor wear, pressure, and temperature.

 

Conclusion

Airport ground support equipment tyres may not grab headlines like aircraft tyres, but they are equally crucial. They carry the weight of aviation operations, quite literally. From towing giant aircraft to ensuring passengers’ baggage is on time, GSE tyres are the hidden workhorses of modern airports.

By understanding the different types, sizes, and manufacturers, airport operators can make better decisions that improve safety, reduce downtime, and optimize costs. As technology advances, the future promises smarter, greener, and more durable GSE tyres — ensuring the aviation industry keeps flying high without ground delays.

 

Disclaimer

This blog post is for informational purposes only. Tyre specifications and suitability vary by airport, equipment type, and operating conditions. For precise recommendations, always consult the equipment manufacturer and tyre supplier.