GREENVILLE, S.C. — Michelin North America Inc. is launching a high-performance bias-ply tire designed for propeller-driven aircraft.
The Michelin Pilot tire, available in two sizes in the U.S. and Canada, is designed to provide extra-long tire life with long tread life and all-weather protection.
Michelin is aiming to offer three additional sizes later this year, with a sixth size targeted for 2019.
Michelin said the new tire offers state-of-the-art features, such as deep tread and light weight, for piston and turbo-prop applications.
The long tire life, according to Robert Sevener, global lead for Michelin general aviation tires, has been achieved through improving carcass construction. Additionally, the natural contour mold profile promotes casing equilibrium for improved footprint pressure distribution in the contact patch.
The tire also incorporates ozone-resistant compounds into the sidewall rubber, providing all-weather protection.
Additional belt plies have been incorporated into the design, strengthening the crown area and improving wear.
According to Michelin, the tire is produced through an "exclusive manufacturing process," which creates built-in balance for smooth taxiing and even tire wear.
Michelin claims that the rubber compounds used in the new tire offer up to 21-percent deeper skid depth compared wtih a leading competitor's tires.
Private aircraft producer Cirrus Design Corp. disclosed recently it had selected Michelin Aircraft Tire as the OE tire provider for its Cirrus propeller-driven and jet-powered airplanes.