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Wheel Fairing Failure Leads to Nose-Over During Landing (N1231K)

Palmetto, FL, US

On January 7, 1999, a Luscombe 8-A (registration N1231K) was involved in an aviation accident near Palmetto, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the wheel fairing attach bolts that resulted in the loss of control during the landing roll when the fairing became lodged under the left wheel. 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 landing, a wheel fairing failed, causing the aircraft to skid and nose-over. Examination found no mechanical failures; the fairing's attach screws sheared and the bolt pulled through.

Incident

During the landing roll, the left wheel fairing separated and became trapped under the wheel. The aircraft skidded approximately 30 feet before nosing over. The pilot reported having felt a vibration during earlier landings.

Damage

The nose-over damaged the propeller, windshield, right wing, and vertical stabilizer.

Examination

Post-accident examination revealed no mechanical failures in the aircraft systems. The left wheel fairing's inside attach screws had sheared off, and the outside attach bolt had pulled through the fiberglass fairing material. The right wheel fairing showed similar damage but remained partially attached.

Other Observations

Tire marks in the grass and sand from the left and right main tires indicated that brakes were applied at a slow speed. The marks ended at the point where the aircraft nosed over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jan 1999 Luscombe 8-A accident near Palmetto, FL?

During landing, a wheel fairing failed, causing the aircraft to skid and nose-over. Examination found no mechanical failures; the fairing's attach screws sheared and the bolt pulled through.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 Jan 1999 Luscombe 8-A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jan 1999 involved a Luscombe 8-A, registration N1231K, at Palmetto, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the wheel fairing attach bolts that resulted in the loss of control during the landing roll when the fairing became lodged under the left wheel.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001204X00011. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.