Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Hard Landing Following Brake Issue During Run-Up (N8987N)

Blairsville, GA, US

On August 30, 1983, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N8987N) was involved in an aviation accident near Blairsville, GA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that during run-up, the right brake was not firm but he continued. During cruise, no pressure was available. Landing flare resulted in a hard touchdown and substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during the pre-takeoff run-up, he noted that the right brake was not firm. Despite this observation, he elected to continue the flight. While cruising, he checked the brake and reportedly found that no pressure was available. The remainder of the flight was routine until the landing phase.

Landing Sequence

During the flare to land, the pilot rounded out high with full flaps and reduced power. Subsequently, the aircraft touched down hard and was substantially damaged.

Pilot's Comments

In his accident report, the pilot suggested that he should not have flown with faulty brakes and that he could have had more practice in short field and/or slow approaches with full flaps.

All Piper PA-32 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Aug 1983 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Blairsville, GA?

A pilot reported that during run-up, the right brake was not firm but he continued. During cruise, no pressure was available. Landing flare resulted in a hard touchdown and substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Aug 1983 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N8987N, at Blairsville, GA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44021. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.