What happened
On 18 December 1999, a private flight involving a Luton LA4A Minor, registration G-AVDY, was conducting a local circuit from Stapleford Airfield in Essex. The weather conditions at the time were favorable, characterized by calm winds and visibility exceeding 10 kilometres.
As the pilot approached Runway 22R, which features a grass surface and a displaced threshold, the aircraft was positioned for landing. Upon touchdown, the starboard wheel became detached from the aircraft. This mechanical failure caused the aircraft to lose stability and come to a halt in an inverted position. The pilot was able to successfully shut off the electrical systems and exit the cockpit before the arrival of the airfield fire and rescue services.
The investigation
Following the incident, the aircraft was inspected by a repair agency to determine the cause of the wheel detachment. The investigation focused on the structural integrity of the landing gear components. During the examination of the detached wheel, investigators identified evidence of slight corrosion within the stub axle.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure of the starboard wheel stub axle.
- Evidence of corrosion was present on the failed component.