What happened
On May 6, 2016, a private pilot was conducting a cross-country flight in a 3Xtrim 550, registration SP-YBS, following a route that included stops in Opole and Gliwice. After refueling at Gliwice, the pilot began the takeoff roll on runway 09. During the takeoff roll, just before rotation, a grinding noise was heard from the landing gear area, followed by a dull thud against the airframe. Ground personnel at Gliwice subsequently notified the crew that the right-side wheel had detached from the aircraft.
Despite the loss of the wheel, the pilot found the aircraft remained controllable and decided to continue the flight to Warsaw-Babube (EPBC). During the flight, the pilot informed Warsaw FIS of the situation and requested emergency services to secure the runway. To manage the fuel load and mitigate risks associated with the uneven grass runway at the destination, the pilot attempted to burn off as much fuel as possible while maintaining necessary reserves.
Approaching runway 10 at Warsaw-Babice, the pilot performed the approach with full flaps at a speed of 90-95 km/h. Before crossing the threshold, the pilot shut down the engine, cut off the fuel supply, and turned off the master electrical switch. This reduction in airspeed led to a stall at low altitude, resulting in a hard landing.
Upon touchdown, the aircraft veered to the right, causing the main landing gear strut to break. The aircraft sustained significant damage, including the failure of both the main and nose landing gear struts, damage to two propeller blades, and damage to the rear skid and horizontal stabilizer. The crew exited the aircraft uninjured.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the landing gear and the subsequent flight maneuvers. Investigators examined the detached wheel and determined that the outer small bearing had disintegrated, though the specific cause of the bearing failure could not be determined. The investigation also analyzed the pilot's decision-making process regarding engine shutdown and airspeed management during the final approach.