Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Failure Results in Runway Excursion (N6901H)

Block Island, RI, US

On June 5, 1983, a Cessna 172M (registration N6901H) was involved in an aviation accident near Block Island, RI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The separation of the outboard pressure plate and lining from the brakes during landing, which resulted in a loss of braking capability and a runway excursion. 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 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported brake failure during landing, causing the aircraft to run off the runway and sustain substantial damage after striking bushes.

What happened

The pilot reported that during the landing phase of flight, the aircraft's braking system failed completely. Unable to stop within the available runway distance, the aircraft overran the paved surface. It continued forward until it came to rest in adjacent vegetation, specifically bushes located at the end of the runway.

The investigation

Post-accident examination revealed that the outboard pressure plate and the friction lining had separated from each brake assembly. According to the pilot's account, the braking system had been functioning normally prior to this sudden failure. No other mechanical anomalies were noted in the provided report.

Probable cause

The separation of the outboard pressure plate and lining from the brakes during landing, which resulted in a loss of braking capability and a runway excursion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Jun 1983 Cessna 172M accident near Block Island, RI?

A pilot reported brake failure during landing, causing the aircraft to run off the runway and sustain substantial damage after striking bushes.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Jun 1983 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N6901H, at Block Island, RI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The separation of the outboard pressure plate and lining from the brakes during landing, which resulted in a loss of braking capability and a runway excursion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43506. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.