What happened
On 12 April 2007, a Boeing 737-400, registration PK-GWK, was operating a scheduled flight from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta to Hasanuddin Airport in Makassar. Shortly after takeoff, the flight crew experienced aircraft vibrations. While engine parameters remained normal, the vibration ceased once the landing gear was retracted. During the flight, the crew was alerted by a following aircraft that tire debris had been left on the runway at the departure airport.
In preparation for landing at Hasanuddin, the pilot in command requested a holding pattern to reduce the aircraft's weight. During a visual approach, the crew performed a low-altitude overflight to inspect the main landing gear. Air traffic control subsequently notified the crew of a problem with the left main landing gear tire. The aircraft landed safely, and passengers disembarked without injury.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the cause of the tire failure and the resulting damage to the aircraft's flight control surfaces. Investigators examined the number-two main landing gear tire, which exhibited an "X" pattern of damage. The investigation also looked into the condition of the runway at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, where recent repairs had been conducted.
Findings
- The number-two tire burst due to the aircraft rolling over a pointed object, which was identified as a piece of broken concrete.
- The tire burst caused the tread to peel off.
- Debris from the tire and/or the concrete fragments struck the left aft flap, resulting in a tear through the flap's thickness.
- Broken pieces of concrete were discovered on the runway shoulder at the departure airport.
- The runway had recently undergone repairs involving asphalt, and while a sweeper truck had been used, debris remained.
Safety action
- The airport operator should ensure runway cleanliness is maintained according to regulations.
- Runway repairs must be executed using approved methods to prevent debris.
- The Directorate General of Civil Aviation should oversee and ensure that airport operators maintain runway cleanliness and adhere to approved repair protocols.