Kumho Gains US Approval for Aircraft Tyres

Kumho Tire Co. has passed the safety standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US for tyres intended for use on civilian aircraft. This milestone paves the way for larger volume US exports for the South Korean tyremaker.

The company has been working with South Korea’s Ministry of Construction and Transportation since March 2005 to obtain international approval for passenger jet tyres, and such consultations have been reflected in tyre design and production.

The absence of international confirmation regarding the quality of Kumho’s tyres made it difficult for the company to complete exports destined for civilian aircraft, and in the past only tyres used on military aircraft had been produced for sale. “This handicap meant jets belonging to our affiliate, Asiana Airlines had to use imported tyres,” explained a company spokesman.

The FAA’s decision means that Kumho can now undertake the mass production of aeroplane tyres for both the domestic and foreign markets. “It can mean great gains in terms of production, sales and profits for the company,” the spokesman added.