Updated: 3 January 2020

The investigation into the main landing gear wheel failure involving Boeing 737, VH-VUH at Brisbane Airport, Queensland, on 4 January 2017 is continuing.

The report into the investigation is currently in the ‘Final report: Internal review’ phase. During this phase, final ATSB investigation reports undergo a rigorous internal review process to ensure the report adequately and accurately reflects the evidence collected, analysis, and agreed findings of the Safety Factor Review. Final investigation reports also undergo other technical and administrative reviews to ensure the reports meet national and international standards for transport safety investigations.

ATSB investigators have so far gathered and analysed numerous information sources including:

• a detailed examination of the fractured wheel
• wheel inspection reports provided by the operator.

Currently, publication of the final report is anticipated during the first quarter of 2020.

Initial summary:

The ATSB is investigating a main wheel hub separation involving a Boeing 737, VH-VUH, at Brisbane Airport, Queensland, on 4 January 2017.

During taxi, prior to departure out of Brisbane, the main wheel hub on the left hand outboard wheel failed and separated from the main landing gear. Tyre deflation occurred as a result, and the aircraft was unable to be towed back to the gate.

The ATSB investigation will examine the circumstances around the component failure, pending an engineering report from the wheel hub manufacturer.