Casualties unknown

1982-07-17: American AA-1 (N5715L) — Frank E. Griffin — Covington, TN

Covington, TN, US

On July 17, 1982, an American AA-1 (registration N5715L) operated by Frank E. Griffin was involved in an aviation accident near Covington, TN. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot landing on runway 01 after checking brakes found left brake inoperative. The aircraft touched down 1000 ft from the departure end of a 4000 ft runway, overran, hit a ditch, and flipped over. Examination revealed flaps up and a hydraulic leak.

Background

Prior to landing, the pilot checked the aircraft's brakes to ensure their integrity and noted that the left brake did not hold pressure. He elected to land on runway 01 because the hangar and ramp areas were located at the north end of the field and he did not want to taxi a long distance with an inoperative brake.

Landing

According to reports, the aircraft was high and fast on final approach. It touched down approximately 1,000 feet from the departure end of the 4,000-foot runway. During the landing roll, the aircraft continued off the end of the runway, struck a ditch, and flipped over. The wind at the time was reported to be from 210 degrees at 7 knots.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination of the aircraft revealed that the flaps were up. A hydraulic leak was found at the 45-degree fitting at the brake housing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02782. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.