What is the consequence of applying the brakes heavily during deceleration?

When brakes are applied heavily during deceleration, one of the significant risks is locking up the wheels. This can lead to a scenario where the tires lose traction with the runway surface. If the tires remain locked for an extended period while the aircraft is still moving, this can generate excessive heat and friction, potentially resulting in tire blowouts. The tires are designed to handle a certain amount of stress, but being locked during a hard brake application exceeds their tolerances and can cause catastrophic failure.

Understanding the mechanics of braking helps explain why this choice stands out. In contrast, while heavy braking might increase stopping distance due to skidding, it is the tire safety and integrity that becomes a critical concern. Increased fuel consumption and decreased engine performance are not directly relevant consequences of braking heavily during deceleration.