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Left Main Wheel Detachment During Taxi Results in Structural Damage (N349AC)

Ely, NV, US

On July 28, 1998, an Aero Commander 690 (registration N349AC) operated by Blm, U.s. Dept OF Interior was involved in an aviation accident near Ely, NV. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure and separation of the left main gear wheel halves due to overload as a result of excessive air pressure. A contributing factor was the inadequate maintenance/service of the main gear tires. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During taxi for departure, the left main wheel separated from the axle, causing the strut to ground and damage to the wing spar and fuselage skin. Investigation revealed stripped bolts and overinflated right tire.

Incident Overview

According to statements from the pilot and observer, the aircraft was taxiing for departure when the left main wheel detached from its axle. As the strut made contact with the taxiway, the left rear wing spar was fractured and the fuselage crown skin became wrinkled.

Examination Findings

Post-incident examination of the aircraft revealed that the left wheel had separated into its two halves, with the tire having come off the wheel. All ten nuts securing the wheel halves together were found stripped off the bolts. Additionally, the air pressure in the right tire was measured using a gauge that only indicates up to 125 psi; the pressure in that tire pegged the gauge at that maximum value. According to the aircraft's flight manual, the maximum main landing gear tire pressure should be 60 psi.

Maintenance error

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jul 1998 Aero Commander 690 accident near Ely, NV?

During taxi for departure, the left main wheel separated from the axle, causing the strut to ground and damage to the wing spar and fuselage skin. Investigation revealed stripped bolts and overinflated right tire.

Were there any fatalities in the 28 Jul 1998 Aero Commander 690 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jul 1998 involved an Aero Commander 690, registration N349AC, operated by Blm, U.s. Dept OF Interior, at Ely, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure and separation of the left main gear wheel halves due to overload as a result of excessive air pressure. A contributing factor was the inadequate maintenance/service of the main gear tires.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10649. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.