Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain directional control due to an internal mechanical failure of the left wheel that caused the wheel to seize.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, approximately 35 mph, the airplane veered hard to the left. He tried to regain directional control by applying full right brake and aileron and reducing power but to no avail. The airplane departed the left side of the runway. The right wing struck PAPI (precision approach path indicator) lights and the airplane came to a halt. The airplane was substantially damaged during th impact. Postaccident examination revealed an internal mechanical failure of the left wheel, causing the wheel to seize and the tire to roll off its rim. Sideloads caused the right main landing gear to fail.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA553 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 30, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Broomfield, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Rocky Mountain Metropolitan (BJC)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built STEEN
- N-number
- N3278K
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.