Casualties unknown

Brake System Wear Leads to Runway Excursion During Landing (N3502M)

Des Moines, IA, US

On June 7, 1985, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N3502M) was involved in an aviation accident near Des Moines, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Excessive wear on brake lining pucks exceeding their effective limit, allowing hydraulic fluid bleed-by. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 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

During a full stop landing, application of brakes caused the aircraft to veer left and continue off the runway, resulting in substantial damage. Investigation revealed excessive brake lining wear.

Incident Overview

A multi-engine aircraft experienced a runway excursion during a full stop landing. The pilot applied the brakes to arrest the landing roll, but the aircraft veered slowly to the left without decelerating. The check pilot applied his brakes to assist, but without any effect. The aircraft continued off the runway, where it sustained substantial damage.

Brake System Condition

The aircraft's braking system had been replaced 140 flight hours prior to the occurrence. The aircraft was used extensively for student pilot training. Examination of the brake system revealed excessive wear on the brake linings. The brake lining pucks exceeded their effective limit, which allowed hydraulic fluid bleed-by.

Conclusion

The investigation determined that the brake lining pucks had exceeded their effective limit, leading to hydraulic fluid bleed-by and loss of braking effectiveness.

Probable cause

Excessive wear on brake lining pucks exceeding their effective limit, allowing hydraulic fluid bleed-by.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jun 1985 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Des Moines, IA?

During a full stop landing, application of brakes caused the aircraft to veer left and continue off the runway, resulting in substantial damage. Investigation revealed excessive brake lining wear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jun 1985 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N3502M, at Des Moines, IA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Excessive wear on brake lining pucks exceeding their effective limit, allowing hydraulic fluid bleed-by.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36868. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.