On June 1, 2015, a PIPER AIRCRAFT CORPORATION PA46-DLX (registration F-GZBG) was involved in an aviation accident near Ecuvillens Aérodrome (LSGE), FR, CH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The sudden bursting of the left tire upon touchdown caused a loss of directional control, resulting in a rightward veer and runway excursion. This summary draws on records from the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (STSB / SUST).
A Piper PA46-DLX experienced a tire burst during touchdown, leading to a runway excursion at Ecuvillens.
What happened
On June 1, 2015, at approximately 10:30 local time, a Piper PA46-DLX, registration F-GZBG, was performing a private VFR landing at Ecuvillens aerodrome (LSGE). As the aircraft's wheels made contact with the runway, the left tire burst. This sudden failure caused the pilot to lose directional control during the deceleration phase. The aircraft veered sharply to the right, eventually coming to a halt on the grass area adjacent to runway 27.
The investigation
An inquiry conducted by the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (SUST) focused on the mechanical failure and the subsequent flight path of the aircraft. The investigation established that the pilot was operating the aircraft under visual flight rules for private purposes. While the pilot remained uninjured, the aircraft sustained damage to the left landing gear leg and the left tire.
Probable cause
The sudden bursting of the left tire upon touchdown caused a loss of directional control, resulting in a rightward veer and runway excursion.