When is it safe to approach hot brakes?

Approaching hot brakes involves assessing the risk of heat-related hazards, such as the potential for brake fires or burns. It is generally advised to wait a significant period of time after landing before approaching the aircraft, as the brakes can remain dangerously hot for an extended duration.

Waiting for approximately 30 minutes before approaching hot brakes is the guideline that aligns with safety practices. This timeframe allows the brake components to cool down sufficiently and reduces the risk of injury to personnel. It’s important to recognize that while some sources may suggest less time, 30 minutes represents a standard consensus that takes into account various factors, including brake type and the conditions of use.

Three other timeframes mentioned, such as 15 minutes or 45 minutes, either do not adequately mitigate risk or are unnecessarily extended without justification based on typical aircraft operations. Furthermore, approaching immediately, even with caution, fails to account for the inherent dangers of heat exposure, thus underscoring the importance of allowing the brakes to cool for a recommended period.