Casualties unknown

Aircraft Swerves After Landing, Noses Over in Drainage Ditch (N91CA)

Lubbock, TX, US

On June 30, 1982, a Beech E18S (registration N91CA) operated by Coker Airfreight, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Lubbock, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During landing, the pilot experienced left brake failure and delayed right engine response, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and nose over in a water-filled ditch. Investigation found air in left brake system.

Incident Details

The pilot reported that after a normal approach and touchdown, he retracted the flaps and lowered the tail. As he applied brakes, the right brake functioned, but the left brake had no braking action, causing the aircraft to swerve to the right. He advanced the right throttle, but the engine did not respond immediately. As the aircraft departed the runway, the right engine power increased and the plane began to turn back toward the runway when it encountered a shallow drainage ditch with about 4 ft of standing water. After hitting the water, the plane decelerated rapidly and nosed over.

Investigation Findings

An investigator revealed that the left brake was spongy and had air in the reservoir and line. It was not determined when the system was last inspected.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jun 1982 Beech E18S accident near Lubbock, TX?

During landing, the pilot experienced left brake failure and delayed right engine response, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and nose over in a water-filled ditch. Investigation found air in left brake system.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jun 1982 involved a Beech E18S, registration N91CA, operated by Coker Airfreight, Inc., at Lubbock, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03330. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.