On July 5, 1995, a Saab-scania AB (saab) SF340A (registration N112AE) operated by Simmons Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Temple, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right outboard wheel was changed without the required spacer. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff, the right main gear outboard wheel separated from the axle. The crew retracted the gear, continued to destination, and landed safely after a fly-by confirmed the loss. Inspection revealed the retaining nut attached and minor axle damage; the wheel had been replaced that morning without a required spacer.
Incident Details
As the airplane was taking off, a ground agent observed the right main gear outboard wheel separate from the axle. The flight crew retracted the landing gear and noted no unusual vibrations or noises. The crew was informed of the wheel separation by company radio. They continued to the destination airport, where a fly-by confirmed the wheel was missing. A landing was made without incident.
Inspection Findings
Inspection of the airplane's right main gear axle revealed that the retaining nut was still attached, and there was minor damage to the axle on the outboard side. According to the operator, the aircraft's right outboard wheel had been changed on the morning of the incident without the use of a required spacer.
Probable cause
The right outboard wheel was changed without the required spacer.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 5 Jul 1995 Saab-scania AB (saab) SF340A accident near Temple, TX?
During takeoff, the right main gear outboard wheel separated from the axle. The crew retracted the gear, continued to destination, and landed safely after a fly-by confirmed the loss. Inspection revealed the retaining nut attached and minor axle damage; the wheel had been replaced that morning without a required…
Were there any fatalities in the 5 Jul 1995 Saab-scania AB (saab) SF340A accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Jul 1995 involved a Saab-scania AB (saab) SF340A, registration N112AE, operated by Simmons Airlines, at Temple, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The right outboard wheel was changed without the required spacer.