Event Description
While taxiing out for takeoff, the aircraft was carrying a full load of fuel and chemicals. During the taxi, the left main wheel broke into three pieces. As a result, the axle sank into the surface of the runway, causing the aircraft to swerve to the left. This swerving action created an overload condition on the right landing gear. Subsequently, the right main gear failed. Portions of the failed right gear bounced up and penetrated the trailing edge of the right wing and flap. The aircraft then pivoted over onto its nose.
Sequence of Failures
The initial failure was the left main wheel, which fractured into three separate pieces. The axle's contact with the runway surface led to a directional change and increased load on the opposite side. The right main gear then failed under the induced overload. Debris from the right gear struck the right wing and flap from below. The aircraft's forward motion and the asymmetric condition caused it to rotate forward onto its nose.
Operational Context
At the time of the event, the aircraft was loaded with fuel and chemicals, indicating a likely agricultural or firefighting operation. The taxi phase was part of the departure procedure. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or injuries are provided in the source.