What happened
The aircraft departed the runway when the right main landing gear failed during the landing phase. The pilot reported that immediately after touchdown, the aircraft began pulling to the right. In an attempt to maintain directional control, the pilot applied left correction, but the aircraft subsequently ground looped.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed that the right main tire and wheel assembly had failed. Further examination of the wheel indicated that it failed due to overload. The damage pattern showed bending consistent with side loading forces.
Findings
The failure of the right main landing gear was a critical factor in the loss of directional control. fuel exhaustion is not cited; rather, the mechanical failure of the wheel assembly under load led to the ground loop. The pilot's inability to prevent the departure from the runway was directly linked to this structural failure.
Safety message
Regular inspection of landing gear components for signs of fatigue or overload damage is essential for maintaining airworthiness and preventing in-flight or on-ground failures.