What happened
On 6 January 2001, a Luscombe 8F, registration G-BSHI, was performing a private flight when it encountered difficulties during the landing phase at Weston Zoyland Airfield, Somerset. The aircraft was arriving on Runway 28 under wind conditions of approximately 270° at 8 to 10 knots.
While the initial touchdown on the paved surface was described as uneventful, the pilot struggled to maintain directional control as the aircraft decelerated. Despite the application of full right rudder, the aircraft continued to veer toward the left. This loss of control caused the aircraft to depart the runway surface and strike a grass bank. The impact resulted in the collapse of the main landing gear and caused damage to the front lower cowl and the belly skins of the aircraft. Both the pilot and the passenger were able to exit the aircraft via the standard door without sustaining any injuries.
The investigation
Following the incident, an examination of the aircraft was conducted to determine the cause of the directional deviation. Investigators focused on the mechanical condition of the landing gear and the tyres. The inspection of the aircraft revealed that the left mainwheel tyre was deflated.