PIPER PA-28-181
Lufkin, TX, October 11, 2008
Event Information
| Date | October 11, 2008 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| Location | Lufkin, TX |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 31.23389, -94.75000 |
| Airport | Angelina County Airport |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
| NTSB Number | CEN09CA020 |
| Event ID | 20081016X15346 |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | PA-28-181 |
| Registration # | N764C |
| Operator | MAXIMUM AVIATION INC |
| Owner | MAXIMUM AVIATION INC |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The student pilot's improper decision to takeoff with a known brake problem. Contributing to the accident were the malfunctioning brake and the rough terrain in the excursion area.
Full Narrative
During the landing rollout the airplane's right brake failed and the airplane departed the runway into a ditch, and subsequently impacted a fence. The airplane came to rest in an upright position and the student pilot was able to exit the airplane unassisted. During the accident the airplane's wings sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that prior to initial taxi for the practice flight the airplane's hand brake and right brake pedal felt "spongy." Both became firm after he pumped them several times. Before the engine run-up the student pilot again attempted to activate the hand brake; however, he was only successful after pumping it several times. The pilot then elected to takeoff.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.