Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN09CA553

Broomfield, CO, USA

Aircraft #1

N3278K

WARNER LEWIS STEEN

Analysis

The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, approximately 35 mph, the airplane veered hard to the left. He tried to regain directional control by applying full right brake and aileron and reducing power but to no avail. The airplane departed the left side of the runway. The right wing struck PAPI (precision approach path indicator) lights and the airplane came to a halt. The airplane was substantially damaged during th impact. Postaccident examination revealed an internal mechanical failure of the left wheel, causing the wheel to seize and the tire to roll off its rim. Sideloads caused the right main landing gear to fail.

Factual Information

The pilot said that during the takeoff roll on runway 29R, at approximately 35 mph, the airplane veered hard to the left. He tried to regain control by applying full right brake and aileron and reducing power but to no avail. The airplane departed the left side of the runway. The right wing struck PAPI (precision approach path indicator) lights and the airplane came to a halt southeast of taxiway A2. Post-accident examination by a mechanic and an FAA airworthiness inspector revealed an internal mechanical failure of the left wheel. The wheel seized and the tire rolled off its rim. Sideloads caused the right main landing gear to fail.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inability to maintain directional control due to an internal mechanical failure of the left wheel that caused the wheel to seize.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

Get all the details on your iPhone or iPad with:

Aviation Accidents App

In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports