Airbus A380 blows tyres on landing [pics]

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An Emirates Airlines Airbus A380-800, registration A6-EDQ performing flight EK-384 from Bangkok (Thailand) to Hong Kong (China), landed on Hong Kong’s runway 07L at 17:33L (09:33Z) on Apr 7th 2012 and vacated the runway via high speed turn off A7 stopping just past the hold short line with two blown right hand main tyres, the aircraft was disabled. The passengers disembarked onto the taxiway via mobile stairs about one hour after landing.

The northern runway 07L/25R was closed for about 4 hours until the aircraft was towed off the taxiway. The runway had been estimated to return to service by 23:30Z (07:30L Apr 8th Hong Kong Time), about 14 hours after landing.

Passengers reported they saw sparks from an engine at the right hand side and noticed a burning smell, the crew quickly announced they had burst tyres.

An observer on the ground reported maintenance staff were replacing a number of tyres.

Sources at Hong Kong Airport report the aircraft suffered an anti-skid failure on landing resulting in brakes locking and causing two main wheels to be ground down to the axle.

The airline reported the aircraft blew two tyres on landing.

Traveloscopy has learned that nose gear tyres on A380s are being replaced roughly every 25 landings as opposed to 200 on a B747.