On March 10, 2000, a Beech 65-B80 (registration N8071R) operated by Western Air Express, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Midland, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The separation of the right main landing gear tire tread which resulted in damage to the right main landing gear mounting structure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff, a pilot experienced vibration and veering at 80 knots, continued the takeoff, and later landed with an abnormal right main gear, which collapsed on touchdown. Examination revealed tire tread separation and structural damage.
Incident Details
During the takeoff roll, at 80 knots, the pilot felt vibration and the airplane began to veer to the right. The pilot corrected the direction and decided to continue the takeoff, reasoning that stopping might lead to an overrun at the departure end of the runway. After becoming airborne, the pilot flew by the control tower, where the tower operator observed that the right main landing gear appeared abnormal. The pilot was cleared for landing. As the airplane touched down, the right main landing gear collapsed.
Examination
An examination of the aircraft revealed that the tread on the right main landing gear tire had separated. Additionally, the right main landing gear mounting structure was torn loose from the wing.