On May 16, 1982, a Cessna 172N (registration N734NR) operated by Norris Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a collision with parked aircraft. Contributing to the accident was the absence of the left brake pad. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing roll, an aircraft swerved off the runway and struck parked planes after investigation revealed a missing left brake pad.
What happened
During the landing roll, the aircraft began to veer toward the right side of the runway. The pilot attempted to maintain directional control by applying power, left rudder, and braking. This corrective action caused the aircraft to swing sharply to the left. The aircraft subsequently departed the paved surface, crossed a taxiway, and collided with a row of parked aircraft.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the landing gear revealed that the left brake pad was missing. This mechanical deficiency prevented the pilot from effectively controlling the aircraft's direction during the critical phase of deceleration on the ground.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a collision with parked aircraft. Contributing to the accident was the absence of the left brake pad.
What happened in the 16 May 1982 Cessna 172N accident near Houston, TX?
During landing roll, an aircraft swerved off the runway and struck parked planes after investigation revealed a missing left brake pad.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 May 1982 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N734NR, operated by Norris Aviation, Inc., at Houston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a collision with parked aircraft. Contributing to the accident was the absence of the left brake pad.
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