Primary finding
Probable cause
Fatigue of the left main landing gear axle.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Upon touchdown the aircraft's left main landing gear separated. The pilot reported that the landing was not hard and was free of side loads. FAA examination of the separated wheel assembly following the accident revealed that the left main landing gear axle had separated allowing the wheel to disengage followed by the separation of the strut. Further examination of the left wheel axle revealed a pre-existing crack consistent with fatigue.
Source record
Factual narrative
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