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Takeoff Tire Failure Leads to Runway Excursion and Gear Collapse (N251RS)

Fort Lauderdale, FL, US

On March 16, 2000, a Cessna 402C (registration N251RS) operated by Air Sunshine, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Lauderdale, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Separation of the right main landing gear tire recap during takeoff resulting in the pilot's loss of directional control, the aircraft departing the runway, collapse of the landing gear, and collision with the airport fence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff at 85-90 knots, the right main landing gear tire failed due to recap separation. The aircraft veered right, departed the runway, spun, collapsed the gear, and collided with the airport fence. The tire, recapped and installed months earlier, had 45.2 flight hours.

Accident Sequence

During takeoff, as the aircraft accelerated to between 85 and 90 knots, the right main landing gear tire failed. The aircraft veered to the right, and the pilot was unable to regain control. The aircraft subsequently departed the right side of the runway, spun around, collapsed the landing gear, and collided with the airport fence, where it came to rest.

Tire Examination

Examination of the right main landing gear tire revealed that the recap had separated from the tire. The separation caused the tire to stop rotating, leading to friction damage and rapid air loss.

Tire History

The tire had been recapped on November 17, 1999, and installed on the aircraft on February 15, 2000. From installation until the accident, the tire had accumulated 45.2 flight hours.

Related events

Same operator

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20694. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.