Event Details
On 30 October 2009, a Boeing 737-300 aircraft, registration PK-GGQ, operated by Garuda Indonesia as flight GA142, was on a scheduled passenger service from Soekarno–Hatta Airport, Jakarta to Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport, Banda Aceh, via Polonia Airport, Medan. The aircraft carried 55 persons: two pilots, four flight attendants, and 49 passengers. The aircraft took off from Jakarta runway 07L at 0129 UTC. During takeoff, the number-two main wheel separated from its axle and fell onto the runway. The air traffic controller informed the crew of the wheel loss. The pilot in command decided to return to Jakarta. The controller alerted the airport rescue and fire fighting service (RFFS), which stood by during landing. The pilot taxied the aircraft off the runway and stopped on taxiway NP1. Passengers disembarked normally via airstairs about 15 minutes after landing. None of the occupants were injured.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that it was likely that the detachment of the number-two main wheel was due to catastrophic failure of the wheel bearings. The bearing failures resulted from an under-torque condition during re-installation of the number-two main wheel, following replacement of the brake unit. The recent wheel installation was conducted on the airport apron during hours of darkness, with flashlights used for illumination. The work environment was not conducive to performing the work safely and in accordance with approved procedures.
Subsequent Actions
On 6 November 2009, PT. Garuda Indonesia informed the National Transportation Safety Committee that PT. GMF AeroAsia had commenced safety actions, including: a Quality Assurance Reminder addressing maintenance quality and safety requirements; a scheduled retraining program for engineers involved in wheel and brake replacement to be completed by 19 February 2010; and Engineer Orders issued on 6 and 10 November for Main Gear Wheel Axle Nut Torque Check and Bearing Inspection, to be completed by 30 November 2009. The National Transportation Safety Committee issued recommendations to PT. GMF AeroAsia, PT. Garuda Indonesia, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation regarding maintenance guidance, training, supervision, and maintenance environment.