EASA SIB CE-11-47R1
Goodyear Aviation Tires - Butyl Rubber Inner Tube Failure
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) CE-11-47R1 titled 'Goodyear Aviation Tires - Butyl Rubber Inner Tube Failure' informs operators, pilots, and manufacturers about potential failures of Goodyear butyl rubber inner tubes used in aviation tires sized 7.00-8.00-6. The bulletin highlights that these failures are not limited to cold weather operations and currently do not warrant mandatory airworthiness directives under 14 CFR part 39.
What Changed
This revision of SAIB CE-11-47 incorporates updated information from Goodyear regarding inner tube failures beyond cold weather conditions. It details improvements made by Goodyear to the butyl rubber compound to enhance crack resistance and cold temperature performance, including a production changeover to the modified compound for 5.00-5 inner tubes as of August 15, 2011.
Why It Matters
Understanding the potential for butyl rubber inner tube failures is critical for aviation professionals to maintain tire integrity and aircraft safety. Operators and maintenance personnel need to be aware of the risk of tire pressure loss that could affect landing performance, especially under crosswind conditions or on narrow and short runways. This awareness helps prevent incidents related to tire failure during ground operations or flight.
What To Do
Operators should carefully inspect Goodyear butyl rubber inner tube tires during pre-flight checks to ensure proper inflation and pressure retention. Pilots should be prepared to handle possible flat tires during landing, particularly in crosswind conditions. Aircraft owners with affected inner tubes are advised to contact Goodyear for further information. No specific compliance deadlines are mandated by this bulletin.