What happened
On May 10, 2023, at approximately 13:27 local time, an Airbus 320 engaged in a public transport flight departed from Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCEL) bound for La Serena (SCSE). Shortly after the takeoff sequence was completed, the flight crew identified an issue involving the aircraft's landing gear. Specifically, the second tire of the left main landing gear experienced a separation of several outer layers of its tread.
As these tire fragments detached, they struck the aircraft's left inner flap. The impact resulted in significant structural damage to the flap component. Following the discovery of the debris and the resulting damage, the crew proceeded to land the aircraft safely at La Serena Aerodrome. There were no injuries to the passengers or the crew during the event.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators focused on the mechanical failure of the tire and the subsequent impact on the aircraft's flight control surfaces. Following the landing, the aircraft was inspected, and the damaged tire was recovered for further examination. To determine the exact cause of the tread separation, the tire was sent to the manufacturer for a specialized technical inspection and a formal report regarding the failure mechanism.