Casualties unknown

Brake Failure During Landing Prompts Go-Around and Fence Strike (N4953F)

Waverly, OH, US

On January 7, 1984, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N4953F) was involved in an aviation accident near Waverly, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The brake linings were worn to the extent that a piston extended beyond its O-ring seal, resulting in loss of brake fluid. 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 landing on a 2000 ft runway at Waverly, Ohio, the pilot executed a go-around after brakes were ineffective. The aircraft struck a fence at the end of the runway and continued to Ross County Airport. Brake examination revealed worn linings causing fluid loss.

Synopsis

During a landing attempt on a 2000-foot runway at Waverly, Ohio, the pilot found the brakes to be ineffective and initiated a go-around. During the go-around, the aircraft struck a fence at the end of the runway. The pilot continued the flight to Ross County Airport and landed safely.

Sequence of Events

The pilot was landing on a 2000-foot runway. The brakes did not respond effectively, prompting a decision to abort the landing and go around. While executing the go-around, the aircraft hit a fence located at the departure end of the runway. Despite the impact, the pilot proceeded to Ross County Airport, where a landing was performed.

Brake Examination

An inspection of the brake system revealed that the linings, part number 66-307, were worn to such a degree that a piston had extended beyond its O-ring seal. This condition resulted in a loss of brake fluid, which explained the ineffective braking during the landing attempt.

Probable cause

The brake linings were worn to the extent that a piston extended beyond its O-ring seal, resulting in loss of brake fluid.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jan 1984 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Waverly, OH?

During landing on a 2000 ft runway at Waverly, Ohio, the pilot executed a go-around after brakes were ineffective. The aircraft struck a fence at the end of the runway and continued to Ross County Airport. Brake examination revealed worn linings causing fluid loss.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jan 1984 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N4953F, at Waverly, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The brake linings were worn to the extent that a piston extended beyond its O-ring seal, resulting in loss of brake fluid.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38526. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.