Transport airplanes and most other aircraft rely on dry, dehumidified nitrogen to fill their tires, a choice that keeps moisture out and counters the oxidation ordinary air would cause. By using this inert gas, operators guarantee the rubber remains intact despite the rapid temperature and pressure swings encountered during flight.
Expert behind this article
Jim Goodrich
Jim Goodrich is a pilot, aviation expert and founder of Tsunami Air.
Which gas is used in airplane tires?
The gas used in aircraft tires is usually dry nitrogen. Transport airplanes use dry (completely dehumidified) nitrogen from high pressure bottles for tire servicing, and most airplanes feature nitrogen-inflated tires. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has required commercial airplanes to use nitrogen in their tires rather than air or oxygen, because nitrogen keeps moisture out of airplane tires and eliminates humidity-related problems.
Nitrogen is the most suitable option for inflating airplane tires because it is an inert gas that is stable under rapid pressure changes and at extreme temperatures. It is less reactive than ordinary air and does not promote combustion. Dry nitrogen makes the inside atmosphere completely incombustible, a benefit arising from the high temperatures reached during operation.
Why is nitrogen gas used in airplane tires?Nitrogen is used in airplane tires because it stabilizes pressure and reduces pressure variation with altitude. As the airplane ascends, pressure in the tires changes, yet dry nitrogen minimizes expansion and contraction from extreme ambient temperature and pressure changes. Consistent tire pressure reduces risk of blowouts at high altitudes or during rapid descent.
Nitrogen provides a stable and inert atmosphere that is non-flammable. It contains non-flammable properties and makes the inside atmosphere completely incombustible. Using nitrogen gas minimizes fires as a result of brake heat transfer as it is an inert gas.
Pure nitrogen does not contain any moisture, thus minimizing wheel corrosion. Oxygen tends to oxidize the rubber, degrading it. Dry nitrogen eliminates humidity related problems and prevents oxidative degradation of the rubber tires..
