Accident Overview
On May 24, 2008, at approximately 1400 eastern daylight time, a Beechcraft A-36 sustained substantial damage when it exited the left side of the runway after landing at Chesapeake Airport (KCPK) in Norfolk, Virginia. The flight, operated by a commercial-rated pilot, was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot and three passengers were not injured.
Flight Details
The local flight originated from Springfield, Tennessee, at 1100 central daylight time. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident.
Weather Conditions
Reported weather at the time of the accident included sky clear, visibility 10 miles, wind from 040 degrees at 7 knots, and an altimeter setting of 29.97 inches of mercury.
Accident Sequence
After touchdown, the aircraft had traveled approximately 50 feet along the runway when the left tire failed. The airplane then veered to the left, departing the runway surface, and struck a runway light and its concrete base, which was approximately 3 to 4 inches above ground level. The impact broke the left wing rear spar in half.
Post-Accident Examination
The left tire was found flat following the accident. Examination revealed no excessive wear or a "bullseye"-type failure pattern typically associated with a locked wheel.