AAIB investigation to Bellanca (American Champion) Decathlon 8KCAB, G-TALX
Landing gear leg failure on touchdown due to corrosion induced fatigue cracking, Tatenhill Aerodrome, Staffordshire, 30 June 2025
During a routine landing at Tatenhill Aerodrome, the left landing gear leg fractured, causing the pilot to lose directional control. The aircraft came to rest in grass beside the runway. Both occupants were uninjured.
The investigation found that the leg fractured due to fatigue cracking, which was initiated by surface corrosion. A manufacturer service letter regarding preventative maintenance inspections for corrosion existed, but this was not mandatory under the Approved Maintenance Program. It could not be determined whether these additional inspections would have effectively detected any pre-existing damage or corrosion.
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