Cessna 140 N76933 accident near Edinburg, Texas

Probable cause

The collapse of the airplane’s left main landing gear for a reason that could not be determined based upon the available evidence.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he had performed three uneventful takeoffs and landings in the tailwheel airplane. During the fourth landing he used a wheel landing technique, and touched down about 45-50 mph. He stated that the touchdown was normal, but the airplane suddenly veered right and did not respond to corrective rudder or brake inputs. The airplane exited the runway and the left main landing gear detached; the left wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage. After the accident, a mechanic examined the airplane and found no preimpact mechanical deficiencies that would have precluded normal operations. The pilot reported that the landing gear was not fractured and that the retaining bolt was not found. Attempts to contact the mechanic to discuss whether the bolt was available for examination were unsuccessful and, therefore, the bolt could not be evaluated.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA233 for the full record.