Incident Overview
On 23 August 2018, a Cessna 152 (registration SP-KIY) operated by an unidentified flight school was conducting training flights for a Private Pilot License (PPL(A)). The aircraft was crewed by an instructor-pilot and a student-pilot.
Flight Sequence
During a subsequent circuit with a touch-and-go landing, after liftoff the right main wheel separated from the aircraft. The crew was unaware of the detachment and continued the flight. After completing a procedural turn of 80/260°, the crew executed a landing on the runway opposite to the departure direction.
Landing and Ground Contact
During the landing roll, once the right main strut made contact with the ground, the aircraft continued straight for approximately 30 meters before making a gentle turn of about 135° towards the damaged strut, after which it came to a stop.
Damage Assessment
After exiting the aircraft, the crew observed slight fuselage dents near the horizontal stabilizer and small dents on the leading edge of the right horizontal stabilizer. The damage was likely caused by the detached wheel. The wheel was later found on the runway.
Cause
The incident was caused by a fatigue fracture of the steel axle on which the wheel hub is mounted.
Investigation Note
The flight training organization completed its final report on 30 July 2021, over three years after the event, following several reminders from the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL).