Incident Overview
During the landing roll on runway 30, an aircraft began to veer to the left. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying right rudder control, but reported feeling a vibration in the tailwheel, describing it as "skidding," as the aircraft continued its leftward movement. The right main tire subsequently came loose from its rim, and the left main landing gear failed at the fuselage attachment points. During this sequence, both wing tips contacted the runway surface. The aircraft came to rest with the left wing resting on the runway.
Damage Assessment
Post-incident examination revealed significant structural damage. Wing skin wrinkles were noted on the upper surface of the left wing, and a rivet seam line on the lower surface was pulled apart. The left side step was pushed upward into the floorboard area, and the occupant seat structure sustained damage. The right wing tip and outboard aileron tip were also damaged.
Inspection Findings
A Federal Aviation Administration Inspector examined the aircraft and reported that the left main wheel was flat, with a small puncture hole observed on the outer rim. The right main tire was also flat, and its rim was damaged from side loading contact with the runway surface. The tailwheel was found intact and free to rotate.
