The E190-E2 just completed one of the last tests required for certification – the maximum braking energy test.
The test measures the ability of the aircraft’s brakes to absorb the kinetic energy produced from stopping after a rejected takeoff at maximum speed and weight. The event takes weeks of planning, training and coordination between engineers, test pilots, those who monitor the test instruments, certification authorities and fire and rescue personnel. Flight crews underwent specific simulator training and conducted preliminary tests on the aircraft.

E2 Maximum Energy test

As the E2 stops and the brakes absorb the kinetic energy, equivalent to that of a seven-axle truck speeding like a Formula 1 race car at 300 km/h, they heat up to more than 1,000 ºC. It’s common to see flames around the brakes and wheels as the aircraft comes to a stop but it’s a very safe and controlled environment. The intense heat trips internal fuses that prevent the tires from exploding. Check out this video of the test.

The test results were right on the mark. The brakes handled the stress and absorbed the energy exactly as designed. The E190-E2 is now on the path to certification and on schedule for entry into service in April with its first customer, Widerøe of Norway.