1997-10-04: Boeing 737-200 — Southwest Airlines — Chicago, IL

Casualties unknown • Chicago, IL, US

Probable cause

an improper repair to a crack in a brake flange hole on the left main landing gear outboard axle, and subsequent fatigue failure of the axle.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The left main landing gear outboard wheel/brake assembly separated from the airplane during a landing roll. The Captain did not report any difficulties in controlling the airplane. Inspection of the failed axle revealed a crack which originated at the surface of one of the brake flange holes. This crack had previously been repaired. Detailed metallurgical examination of the crack revealed properties consistent with the surface having been heated to an excessive temperature during the repair process.

All Boeing 737-800 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-10-04 Boeing 737-200 accident near Chicago, IL?

The left main landing gear outboard wheel/brake assembly separated from the airplane during a landing roll. The Captain did not report any difficulties in controlling the airplane. Inspection of the failed axle revealed a crack which originated at the surface of one of the brake flange holes. This crack had…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-10-04 involved a Boeing 737-200, registration N129SW, operated by Southwest Airlines, at Chicago, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

an improper repair to a crack in a brake flange hole on the left main landing gear outboard axle, and subsequent fatigue failure of the axle.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08961. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…