Bridgestone, Ethiopian Airlines cut tire damage through data-driven FOD reduction
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Bridgestone Corporation announced that it has launched a co-creation initiative with Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline, and Ethiopian Airports at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. The initiative aims to reduce Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on airport surfaces, enhancing aircraft safety and operational reliability. This marks the first time Bridgestone has engaged in an ongoing, three-party collaboration with both an airline and an airport on FOD reduction.
Effective FOD management is critical to safe aircraft operations. At Bole International Airport, the main hub for Ethiopian Airlines, FOD had previously contributed to tire-related issues that could disrupt flight schedules, highlighting the need for improved operational efficiency and safety measures.
Bridgestone inspects and analyzes all used aircraft tires returned by its airline customers, compiling FOD data specific to each operator. Drawing on this accumulated data and technical expertise, the company assessed FOD conditions at Bole International Airport and proposed a collaborative approach with Ethiopian Airlines and Ethiopian Airports. Bridgestone supported and enhanced regular FOD patrols through data-driven analysis, the creation of hazard maps, recommendations for more efficient debris collection, and awareness activities highlighting the operational impact of FOD.
As a result of the ongoing collaboration, the rate of aircraft tire issues caused by FOD has declined significantly compared with levels prior to the initiative. The improvement has contributed to better on-time performance and safer, more reliable operations for Ethiopian Airlines. In addition, increased use of retreaded tires has improved productivity, economic efficiency, and sustainability across aviation operations.
Ethiopian Airlines Group and Bridgestone plan to continue expanding this co-creation effort, supporting the advancement of the aviation industry and delivering broader societal value.
Retta Melaku, Chief Operating Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, said the collaboration reinforces the airline’s commitment to safety. He noted that working with Bridgestone strengthens efforts to reduce FOD at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and ensures safe operations at the carrier’s main hub.
Getaneh Adera, Managing Director of Ethiopian Airports, said the reduction in FOD reflects a strong commitment to safety and close collaboration with Bridgestone. He added that the initiative has resulted in safer operations while enhancing productivity and economic value.
Jean-Philippe Minet, Managing Director of Bridgestone Aircraft Tire (Europe) S.A., said the partnership combines Ethiopian Airlines’ operational insights with Bridgestone’s analytical technology and expertise to deliver customized solutions. He added that the collaboration has improved operational productivity while contributing to safer aircraft operations and creating new value through data-driven innovation.
Through the continued expansion of airline solutions, Bridgestone said it remains committed to delivering social and customer value through co-creation, in line with its Bridgestone E8 Commitment, which emphasizes efficiency, productivity, innovation, and sustainable mobility.