Michelin & Safran conduct flight tests on connected aircraft tyre

A first for Michelin – the tyre maker reports that, along with Safran Landing Systems, it conducted a test flight of a connected aircraft tyre. Testing of the PresSense tyre took place at the Istres air base in southern France on 13 June, using a Dassault Aviation Falcon 2000S.

A joint effort by Michelin and Safran Landing Systems, PresSense is a wireless solution for aircraft tyres that is designed to facilitate airlines’ maintenance operations. An electronic sensor measures tyre pressure and transmits this data wirelessly to a database, eliminating the need for technicians to take readings from directly the tyre. All pressure readings are saved and can be consulted via an online interface.

This month’s airborne testing follows ground tests in January 2019 that validated wireless tyre pressure readings for different aircraft configurations. Carried out under real conditions, these tests prove the validity of the technology developed jointly by Michelin and Safran Landing Systems. The next step will be flight tests on different aircraft at the end of this year and early 2020 before the entry of PresSense into service later that year.

“Tyres are a major factor in aircraft safety during takeoffs and landing,” comments Frank Moreau, senior vice president of Michelin’s Aircraft business line. “With PresSense, we can guarantee the right pressure with shorter measurements times, under any circumstances and at any airport or in different theatres of operation, for civil or military applications. The continuous improvement of safety is a critical part of Michelin’s approach to sustainable mobility. The first flight of a connected tyre is a milestone in our history, and we are proud to have shared this moment with our partner, Safran.”

Jean-Paul Alary, chief executive officer of Safran Landing Systems, adds: “This partnership brings together two world leaders from different markets, namely tyres and aircraft systems. Our two companies share the same values and the same passion for innovation. With this programme we wanted to pool our talents and skills to accelerate the development and time to market of an innovative digital solution that delivers exceptional value to our customers.”