Airplane tires are durable things that will last for many years if taken care of properly. But just one bad landing can burn off a thick layer of rubber in one small area of the tire. Many flight schools and flying clubs have it as a policy that pilots who damage tires pay for their mistakes. And frankly, if you land with your feet on the brakes, you shouldn’t make your fellow renters or club members pay.
But you may get stuck with somebody else’s bill if you don’t inspect the tires properly before you plant yourself inside the cockpit. If there is a bald spot on one or both of the mains, it is likely to be hidden since the wheels have a tendency to prefer to rest on the flatter portion of the tire. So it’s a good idea to roll the airplane to inspect each portion of the tire.
