On January 16, 1986, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N4325V) operated by Janelle Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Leesburg, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Uneven braking during landing that caused the aircraft to swerve off the runway, followed by the pilot's successful recovery using full power. 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.
A student pilot experienced uneven braking during landing, causing the aircraft to leave the runway and head toward a ditch. The pilot applied full power, became airborne again, and landed safely without further incident.
What happened
The student pilot reported that uneven braking during the landing roll caused the aircraft to swerve off the side of the runway. Recognizing that the aircraft was heading directly for a ditch, the pilot applied full power shortly thereafter. The aircraft subsequently contacted the ditch and trees before becoming airborne again. Following this recovery, the pilot landed the aircraft without further incident.
Findings
The primary factor in the event was uneven braking during landing, which led to the loss of directional control and runway excursion. The pilot's prompt application of full power allowed for a successful recovery from the ditch and trees.
Probable cause
Uneven braking during landing that caused the aircraft to swerve off the runway, followed by the pilot's successful recovery using full power.
What happened in the 16 Jan 1986 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Leesburg, VA?
A student pilot experienced uneven braking during landing, causing the aircraft to leave the runway and head toward a ditch. The pilot applied full power, became airborne again, and landed safely without further incident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Jan 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N4325V, operated by Janelle Aviation, at Leesburg, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Uneven braking during landing that caused the aircraft to swerve off the runway, followed by the pilot's successful recovery using full power.
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