Casualties unknown

Runway Excursion After Ineffective Brakes During Landing (N8399U)

Ebensburg, PA, US

On August 30, 1983, a Cessna 172F (registration N8399U) was involved in an aviation accident near Ebensburg, PA. 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

During a landing attempt, the pilot touched down 300 feet past the runway threshold. The brakes were ineffective, and insufficient runway remained for a go-around. The aircraft overran into high grass and struck a ditch. Post-accident inspection found heavily rust-pitted brake discs and wheels that could rotate under full brake pressure.

Event Description

The pilot initiated a go-around during the first landing attempt due to being too high. On the subsequent landing, the aircraft touched down approximately 300 feet down the runway. When the pilot applied the brakes, they were ineffective. Insufficient runway length remained to execute another go-around. The aircraft continued off the end of the runway, entered high grass, and collided with a ditch.

Post-Accident Inspection

A visual inspection of the brake system was conducted. All system components were found to be within the manufacturer's specified limits except for the brake discs, which were heavily pitted from rust. Additionally, the wheels could be rotated by hand while full brake pressure was applied, indicating that the brakes were not effectively restraining the wheels.

Summary

The accident involved a runway excursion during a landing attempt. The pilot had previously executed a go-around due to an excessively high approach. The landing touchdown point was well beyond the runway threshold. The subsequent brake application failed to decelerate the aircraft, and the remaining runway length was insufficient for a safe go-around. The post-accident examination revealed significant rust pitting on the brake discs and a lack of braking effect even with full brake pressure applied.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Aug 1983 Cessna 172F accident near Ebensburg, PA?

During a landing attempt, the pilot touched down 300 feet past the runway threshold. The brakes were ineffective, and insufficient runway remained for a go-around. The aircraft overran into high grass and struck a ditch. Post-accident inspection found heavily rust-pitted brake discs and wheels that could rotate under…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Aug 1983 involved a Cessna 172F, registration N8399U, at Ebensburg, PA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44342. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.