
The Importance of Preventing Wheel Loss on Commercial Vehicles
Preventing Wheel Loss: Lessons from a Boeing 777 Incident
The safety and security of passengers and the public should be the top priority in the transportation industry, followed closely by cargo safety.
Following the recent incident where a wheel fell off a Boeing 777 shortly after take-off, it’s a stark reminder of the importance of preventing wheel loss on all commercial vehicles.
Keep reading to learn about the incident and explore ways to prevent wheel loss on commercial fleets.

The Incident
A Boeing 777 departing from San Francisco to Japan, carrying 249 passengers and crew, lost one of its wheels seconds after take-off. The wheel measured 52 inches by 21 inches and weighed 265 pounds. While it caused severe damage to some parked, unoccupied cars, the aircraft landed safely without casualties. No one would expect such a massive plane to face this kind of malfunction. See video.

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While high-profile incidents like this grab media attention, they serve as a wake-up call for all transportation modes, including buses, coaches, and trucks. Wheel loss can pose serious dangers to passengers, cargo, and the public.
Preventive Measures for Your Fleet
Fortunately, there are proven ways to reduce the risk of wheel loss on commercial vehicles.
Ensure Safety & Security
Preventing wheel loss requires:
- Rigorous maintenance and regular walk-round checks
- Advanced wheel nut security systems for extra protection
Our wheel nut security systems help prevent wheel nuts from loosening, reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries caused by wheel detachment. By integrating these solutions into your fleet, you enhance vehicle safety, reliability, and peace of mind.
Trusted Solutions
- PROLOCK – Industry-standard wheel nut locking device with 20-year track record, TUV-approved. Discover Prolock
- ZAFETY LUG LOCK – Locks two adjacent wheel nuts for added security on HGVs, buses, and coaches. Explore Zafety Lug Lock
- RIC CLIP – Reusable wheel nut safety clamps, quick to fit and remove, reducing wheel detachment risk. Find out more about Ric Clip
With ProLock, Zafety Lug Lock, and Ric Clip, you can safeguard your fleet, prioritising safety on the road and security for everyone.
Even when incidents don’t cause injuries, like the recent wheel falling on unoccupied cars, they highlight the unpredictable nature of such events and the need for proactive safety measures.
By making preventive measures a top priority and investing in robust safety practices, we can minimise the risks associated with wheel loss and work towards a future free from these incidents.
Contact us today to learn more and prioritise fleet safety.