Casualties unknown

Brake Failure During Landing Roll Causes Runway Excursion (N2860N)

Spicewood, TX, US

On April 18, 1983, a Piper PA-28-201T (registration N2860N) was involved in an aviation accident near Spicewood, 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

An aircraft experienced brake failure on landing roll, resulting in collision with a metal light pole, nose gear damage from a hole, and left wing tree strike. Examination showed left brake linings completely worn and right brake excessive wear.

Event Description

During the landing roll, the aircraft's brakes failed, and the pilot was unable to stop on the remaining runway. Subsequently, the aircraft struck a metal light pole. The nose gear was damaged when it hit a hole, and the left wing struck trees.

Brake Examination

Examination of the braking system revealed that the left brake linings were worn completely away, exposing the O-ring seal and allowing hydraulic fluid to escape. The right brake exhibited excessive wear. The aircraft was equipped with large wheel pants, which would have made the brake system difficult to inspect during a preflight check.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Apr 1983 Piper PA-28-201T accident near Spicewood, TX?

An aircraft experienced brake failure on landing roll, resulting in collision with a metal light pole, nose gear damage from a hole, and left wing tree strike. Examination showed left brake linings completely worn and right brake excessive wear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Apr 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-201T, registration N2860N, at Spicewood, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42686. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.