Accident Description
A certificated private pilot was landing a tundra tire equipped airplane on a gravel-covered runway. The runway had approximately 2 to 3 inches of standing water stretching lengthwise along the right side.
Sequence of Events
During the landing roll, the right main wheel entered the standing water. The pilot applied the brakes, and the right wheel began to hydroplane and stopped turning. As the airplane continued down the runway, the right wheel exited the standing water and contacted the gravel surface. The force of the non-rotating wheel contacting the gravel sheared the right tire's valve stem, causing the right tire to deflate instantly. The deflated tire then 'grabbed' the surface, resulting in the right axle breaking.
Damage
The right wing struck the runway and sustained substantial damage to the leading edge and main spar.
Pilot's Statement
In his written report to the NTSB, the pilot stated: 'The air pressure in the tire may have been a little low, due to the cold weather we had earlier.'