A pneumatic or air-filled tire consists of an inner core which is filled with pressurized air and sealed airtight. Typically, a reinforced steel belted tread or other kind of materials, seals this inner core and provides the contact part with the road.
The tire would remain inflated with all the vehicle's weight resting on it, because the pressure of the air in the tire is more than atmospheric air pressure. The air pressure inside the tire gives resistance against forces which try to deform the tire. When the tire hits bumps in the road, this gives the tire a slight degree of a cushioning effect. If you have ever taken a ride in an old-fashioned carriage that had wooden wheels, you understand how huge of a difference a set of pneumatic tires makes.
Of course, there are some disadvantages to pneumatic tires. For example in high-performance situations or highly dangerous applications, these tires can suffer a puncture and this would lead to a total failure. The consequence of a blowout at high speeds can result in a serious car crash. Military planners should consider tires getting blown out by explosion shrapnel or gunfire. The worst nightmare of a vehicle crew is becoming trapped within a fire zone because of all of their tires becoming flat. Airless tires obviously don't suffer from these issues and hence, could be more suitable in some applications.
Pneumatic tires have one more problem involving variations in tire performance and air pressure. Lower tire pressure can create improved traction and increased comfort. This is due to the fact that tires flatten slightly and more tread is placed in contact with the road. The air pressure inside of the tire works to maintain the lateral stiffness of the tire as well as maintain the "up and down" stiffness. Thus, less air pressure allows the tires' sidewalls to flex. Unfortunately, this results in poor handling. Within an airless tire, the stiffness in those two dimensions is independent.
Air pressure factors into other problems also. When it comes to maintaining proper air pressure, consumers are notoriously undependable. Incorrect air pressure inside tires could result in really unsafe situations. It is important to note that pneumatic tires are also prone to temperature changes, which could be responsible for changing the internal tire pressure. It is very essential to take into consideration the type of settings you will be needing your equipment to operate in so that you can inspect the tires regularly and keep the machine as safe as possible.