Yes, airplanes, particularly general aviation (GA) airplanes, often require spare wheels.
The need for spare wheels stems from the fact that different types of tires are commonly used on various parts of an airplane. Specifically, the main tires on GA aircraft are typically a different size than those on the nose or tailwheel.
Why Multiple Spares Might Be Needed
Because of these size variations, a single spare wheel won't suffice. Instead, it's often necessary to carry at least two spare wheels.
Here's a more detailed look:
- Different Sizes: The main landing gear tires, which bear the brunt of the aircraft's weight during landing, are usually larger.
- Nose/Tailwheel Variation: In contrast, the tires on the nose gear (for nosewheel aircraft) or tailwheel (for taildraggers) are often smaller.
Practical Implications
The need for two spares on many smaller airplanes highlights the importance of proper maintenance and pre-flight checks to avoid needing to replace a tire mid-journey. Ensuring tires are in good condition and properly inflated can help avert most tire-related issues, but the knowledge that two spares might be necessary is a key planning consideration.
Additional Considerations
While this discussion focuses mainly on GA aircraft, larger commercial airliners also carry spares, and the complexity of spare tire management can vary greatly based on the size and operating parameters of the airplane. However, the concept of different sizes requiring different spares is equally important.
