Where must a tire be placed during inflation of a tire/wheel assembly?

The tire must be placed in a safety cage during inflation to ensure the safety of personnel and to minimize the risk of injury. When inflating a tire or wheel assembly, especially those used in aviation, there is a high potential for catastrophic failure due to high pressure. In the event of a tire blowout, the safety cage acts as a protective barrier, containing any debris and preventing it from injuring nearby personnel.

Using a safety cage is a crucial standard practice within aviation maintenance environments, as it complies with safety regulations and best practices. The cage is specifically designed to withstand the forces generated during an over-inflated tire explosion, thereby ensuring a safe working environment.

In contrast, placing the tire on the hangar floor or in a maintenance bay does not provide the necessary protection for those in the vicinity. An open area, while perhaps safer than other improper locations, still poses significant risk without the added protection of a safety cage.