Casualties unknown

Left Main Gear Failure Following Brake System Malfunction During Landing Roll (N1289B)

Hunter, NY, US

On July 28, 1983, a Luscombe 8A (registration N1289B) was involved in an aviation accident near Hunter, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loose right brake cable leading to asymmetric braking and left main gear failure on downward sloping terrain. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

Aircraft swerved left during landing roll due to loose right brake cable, leading to gear failure on downward sloping terrain despite recent annual inspection.

What happened

The pilot reported that during the landing roll, the aircraft swerved to the left when brakes were applied. Subsequently, the aircraft went onto downward sloping terrain and the left main gear failed.

The investigation

An examination of the braking system revealed that the right brake cable had become loose. Reports indicated that the brakes had been inspected and adjusted during an annual inspection dated 10 days prior to the accident.

Findings

The incident involved left main gear failure following a swerve during landing roll. Contributing factors included a loose right brake cable despite recent maintenance.

Probable cause

Loose right brake cable leading to asymmetric braking and left main gear failure on downward sloping terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jul 1983 Luscombe 8A accident near Hunter, NY?

Aircraft swerved left during landing roll due to loose right brake cable, leading to gear failure on downward sloping terrain despite recent annual inspection.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jul 1983 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N1289B, at Hunter, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loose right brake cable leading to asymmetric braking and left main gear failure on downward sloping terrain.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43935. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.