Casualties unknown

Pilot Intentionally Groundloops Aircraft Due to Brake Malfunction (N2843Z)

Franksville, WI, US

On August 6, 1983, a Piper PA-22-160 (registration N2843Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Franksville, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to intentionally groundloop the aircraft because it would not stop at the end of the runway, due to brake malfunction. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot intentionally groundlooped an aircraft at the end of the runway because it would not stop. The pilot reported brake malfunction, though a mechanic noted low fluid but functional brakes.

What happened

The aircraft was intentionally groundlooped as it failed to stop at the end of the runway. The pilot stated that the brakes had malfunctioned during the landing roll. A mechanic who worked on the aircraft after the accident reported that the brakes were available, despite low brake fluid levels. This mechanic witnessed the accident and noted that the aircraft did not touch down until approximately two-thirds of the way down the runway.

The investigation

The mechanic who performed post-accident work confirmed that the braking system was functional, even though the brake fluid reservoir was low. This contradicts the pilot's initial assessment of a total brake failure.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to intentionally groundloop the aircraft because it would not stop at the end of the runway, due to brake malfunction.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44062. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.