On February 14, 1982, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N2552U) operated by Joe F. Marler Iii was involved in an aviation accident near Ridgeland, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft due to a reported loss of brake effectiveness, which resulted in an overrun and subsequent rollover down an embankment. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
The pilot reported losing brake effectiveness shortly after touchdown on a 3,100-foot runway. The aircraft continued past the departure end, descended a 25-foot embankment, and overturned.
What happened
Following touchdown on the first third of a 3,100-foot runway, the pilot reported a sudden loss of brake functionality. Unable to slow the aircraft effectively, it continued down the remaining length of the pavement and exited past the departure end. The aircraft then descended a 25-foot embankment before coming to rest in an overturned position.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the wheel brake system was conducted to determine the cause of the failure. Inspectors performed physical tests, including pushing the aircraft, to verify mechanical integrity. These checks did not reveal any obvious malfunctions or defects within the braking mechanism itself.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft due to a reported loss of brake effectiveness, which resulted in an overrun and subsequent rollover down an embankment.
What happened in the 14 Feb 1982 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Ridgeland, SC?
The pilot reported losing brake effectiveness shortly after touchdown on a 3,100-foot runway. The aircraft continued past the departure end, descended a 25-foot embankment, and overturned.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Feb 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N2552U, operated by Joe F. Marler Iii, at Ridgeland, SC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft due to a reported loss of brake effectiveness, which resulted in an overrun and subsequent rollover down an embankment.
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