Casualties unknown

Tire Blowout Leads to Hydraulic Failures and Brake Lock (N8951E)

Atlanta, GA, US

On March 14, 1990, a Douglas DC-9-31 (registration N8951E) operated by Eastern Air Lines, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Atlanta, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE SERVICING OF THE AIRPLANE BY OPERATOR MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL WHICH RESULTED IN THE BURST TIRE. FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT WERE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM LINES WHICH WERE FRACTURED BY DEBRIS FROM THE BURST TIRE AND A TOTAL FAILURE OF THE AIRPLANE HYDRAULIC… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, a right gear inboard tire blew out, destroying both right tires. Hydraulic systems failed en route, and after landing, left brakes locked due to inoperative anti-skid. Investigation found tire under inflation after three similar incidents.

Incident Overview

During the takeoff roll, the right gear inboard tire blew out. Both right tires were subsequently destroyed by the forces of the takeoff roll. The aircraft continued the departure.

Hydraulic System Failure

While climbing through 19,000 feet, the right hydraulic system indicated zero pressure and zero quantity. As the flight progressed, during the approach to landing, the left hydraulic system depleted.

Landing and Brake Lock

After landing, the left brakes locked because the anti-skid system was inoperative due to the hydraulic failure. The aircraft came to a stop with the left brakes engaged.

Investigation Findings

Investigation revealed that no prior damage to the tire had been recorded. The operator's daily service inspection requires that tire pressure be checked with a tire gauge. Two additional blown tires had occurred during takeoff from the same operator's station within the preceding three months. Evidence of tire under inflation was discovered after the third incident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22661. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.