Aircraft Exits Runway After Left Main Gear Failure

Casualties unknown • Liberal, KS, US

An aircraft veered off the runway and came to rest on its nose and wing following a wind gust and subsequent landing gear failure.

What happened

Following landing, the aircraft encountered a gust of wind that caused it to veer to the right. In an attempt to correct the deviation, the pilot applied full left rudder and increased power. During this maneuver, the left main gear failed, causing the aircraft to exit the runway to the right. The aircraft eventually came to rest on its nose and its right wing.

At the time of the event, reported winds at the airport were from 190 degrees at 23 knots, with gusts reaching 28 knots.

The investigation

Investigators identified rubber skid marks followed by metal skid marks on the runway surface. Examination of the landing gear revealed that the left axle had sheared off at the four bolts used to attach it to the landing gear. Additionally, the outside wall of the left tire exhibited scratches, and the bottom tip of the left wing was also scratched.

Probable cause

A gust of wind caused the aircraft to veer right, leading to a failure of the left main gear axle.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-10-24 Cessna A185E accident near Liberal, KS?

An aircraft veered off the runway and came to rest on its nose and wing following a wind gust and subsequent landing gear failure.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-10-24 involved a Cessna A185E, registration N1613M, at Liberal, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A gust of wind caused the aircraft to veer right, leading to a failure of the left main gear axle.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04677. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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