Runway Overrun During Experimental Certification Flight Due to Brake System Malfunction

Casualties unknown • Little Rock, AR, US

An experimental aircraft overran a wet runway during an FAA certification flight because the left brake was inoperative due to reversed sensor harnesses, causing nose gear collapse.

What happened

The aircraft was conducting an FAA certification flight under experimental rules. During the recovery phase of the maneuver, a non-type-rated FAA pilot occupied the left seat while the pilot in command (PIC) sat in the right seat. As the aircraft descended, warning lights for duct failure and leading edge overheat illuminated; the PIC took corrective action. The FAA pilot then initiated an instrument landing system approach to runway 22, which was wet. The approach was conducted with the left engine at high idle, and the thrust reversers were not armed for landing. Touchdown occurred approximately 2000 feet down the runway, and spoilers were deployed. When the FAA pilot realized reverse thrust was unavailable, he attempted to slow the aircraft using brakes, but the left brake was inoperative. The PIC took control and cycled the anti-skid system, yet still experienced no left braking action. The aircraft subsequently ran off the end of the runway, and the nose gear collapsed in muddy terrain.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft revealed that during previous maintenance, the speed sensor harnesses for the left main gear were reversed. This installation error eliminated any braking capability to the left brake while the anti-skid system was engaged.

Probable cause

The reversal of the left main gear speed sensor harnesses during maintenance, which prevented left braking action when the anti-skid system was active, leading to a runway overrun and nose gear collapse.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1984-04-02 Canadair CL-600 CHALLENGER accident near Little Rock, AR?

An experimental aircraft overran a wet runway during an FAA certification flight because the left brake was inoperative due to reversed sensor harnesses, causing nose gear collapse.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1984-04-02 involved a Canadair CL-600 CHALLENGER, registration N800CC, at Little Rock, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The reversal of the left main gear speed sensor harnesses during maintenance, which prevented left braking action when the anti-skid system was active, leading to a runway overrun and nose gear collapse.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39359. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…