Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over After Landing on Wet Runway with Ineffective Brakes (N210AG)

Marlboro, NJ, US

On September 23, 1985, a Cessna P210N (registration N210AG) was involved in an aviation accident near Marlboro, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and ensure adequate stopping distance on a wet runway, resulting in a collision with trees. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

During a VOR approach in rain, the pilot landed on a wet runway where brakes proved ineffective. Unable to abort, the aircraft struck trees at the runway end and nosed over.

What happened

The pilot conducted a VOR approach to the airport while circling to land, simultaneously assessing wind conditions during rainfall. A landing was executed on Runway 27. Upon touchdown, the pilot reported that the brakes were ineffective and described the runway surface as wet. Recognizing it was too late to initiate a go-around, the pilot elected to remain on the ground. The aircraft subsequently contacted trees located at the end of the runway and nosed over.

Findings

The runway length is 2170 feet with a usable length of 1730 feet. The combination of wet conditions and brake ineffectiveness contributed to the inability to stop within the available distance.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and ensure adequate stopping distance on a wet runway, resulting in a collision with trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Sept 1985 Cessna P210N accident near Marlboro, NJ?

During a VOR approach in rain, the pilot landed on a wet runway where brakes proved ineffective. Unable to abort, the aircraft struck trees at the runway end and nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Sept 1985 involved a Cessna P210N, registration N210AG, at Marlboro, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and ensure adequate stopping distance on a wet runway, resulting in a collision with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37892. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.