Incident Overview
On Sunday, 21 April 2024, at approximately 0948 UTC, a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, registration ZS-FGE, operated by FlySafair, was conducting a scheduled commercial flight from O.R. Tambo International Aerodrome (FAOR) in Gauteng province to Cape Town International Aerodrome (FACT) in Western Cape province. During the takeoff rotation, the left outer (No.1) mainwheel detached from the axle. In response, the crew entered a holding pattern to reduce fuel load. After 2 hours and 17 minutes of flying, the crew was cleared to land on Runway 21R at FAOR. The touchdown was uneventful, but approximately 30 meters before the aircraft came to a complete stop, the left inner (No.2) mainwheel tire burst. No injuries were reported among the two pilots, four cabin crew, and 178 passengers. The aircraft sustained minor damage.
Investigation Details
The Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) was notified and classified the occurrence as a serious incident under the Civil Aviation Regulations 2011 and ICAO Annex 13. An investigation team was dispatched to the site. Notifications were sent to the State of Design and Manufacturer, which appointed an accredited representative and advisors to participate in the investigation.
Interim Findings
The fractured inboard wheel hub, part number 2615480 with serial number B-H0527, originated from the left main gear outboard wheel assembly. This component was sent for metallurgical analysis to determine the fracture mode and probable cause. A detailed metallurgical report has been received but requires further review in conjunction with the manufacturer's report on the bearings. On 29 May 2025, a report specifically addressing the condition of the inboard and outboard bearings of the No.1 left wheel was issued to the AIID. The AIID is currently analyzing all specialist reports to formulate conclusions for the final report, which is expected within six months.