On November 29, 1983, a Cessna 195 (registration N9335A) was involved in an aviation accident near EL Cajon, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a groundloop and subsequent failure of the left landing gear. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Aircraft veered right during landing, prompting left brake application that failed to correct the path. The aircraft groundlooped, resulting in failure of the left landing gear.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft veered to the right while on final approach and during the landing roll. In an attempt to maintain directional control, the pilot applied the left brake; however, this input proved ineffective. The aircraft subsequently groundlooped, which resulted in the failure of the left landing gear.
The investigation
Mechanics examined the braking system following the accident. Due to significant damage sustained by the hydraulic lines and associated fittings, it was not possible to determine if a pre-existing leak was present prior to the incident. The pilot noted that he had completed three landings earlier in the day without any issues, and conditions at the time were calm winds.
Findings
left landing gear failure
groundloop during landing
ineffective left brake application
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a groundloop and subsequent failure of the left landing gear.