An improved aircraft wheel configuration obviates the hazard of wheel failure during take-off and landing situations when tire deflation occurs and the wheel accepts full loading on its flanges. The wheel is configured to provide a differential flange height between the inboard and outboard flanges such that the total load applied to the wheel is distributed equally between the flanges. Alternatively, and/or in addition the flanges are restructured to provide an increased section modulus and the inboard flange is designed to provide a wider contact surface.