Casualties unknown

1983-10-08: Piper PA-38-112 (N9238T) — Block Island, RI

Block Island, RI, US

On October 8, 1983, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N9238T) was involved in an aviation accident near Block Island, RI. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft veered off the runway during landing, resulting in damage to the nose and right main gear due to a missing nut and ferrule on the brake line.

What happened

The flight proceeded without incident until the aircraft landed at its destination. Upon touchdown, the aircraft began to veer off the runway, leading to significant structural damage. The nose gear and the right main landing gear collapsed during this excursion.

The investigation

A mechanical examination of the brake system was conducted to determine the cause of the loss of directional control. Inspectors found that the brake fluid reservoir still contained adequate fluid levels. Testing revealed that the left brake remained firm, indicating normal pressure, while the right brake had no pressure.

Further inspection of the hydraulic line connected to the right brake revealed a critical failure point. A nut and ferrule were missing from the connection, which caused the loss of hydraulic pressure and rendered the right brake inoperative.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the accident was the loss of braking capability on the right side. This mechanical failure prevented the pilot from maintaining directional control during the landing roll. The collapse of the nose and right main gear was a direct result of the aircraft leaving the paved surface due to this asymmetric braking.

probable_cause:

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44949. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.