On July 26, 1986, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N80510) was involved in an aviation accident near Dodgeville, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft before reaching the end of the runway, despite the braking system being found in proper working order and skid marks indicating brake application. 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 pilot reported that his brakes failed during landing, causing the aircraft to go off the end of the runway and over a 30-foot embankment.
What happened
The pilot reported that he experienced brake failure during the landing roll. Unable to stop the aircraft before reaching the end of the runway, the plane continued forward and descended over a 30-foot embankment. The incident occurred during the landing phase of flight.
The investigation
Following the accident, a thorough inspection of the aircraft was conducted to determine the mechanical status of the braking system. Investigators found that the brakes and the associated braking system were free of any defects and were in proper working order at the time of the inspection.
Additionally, examination of the runway surface revealed skid marks near the end of the pavement. These marks indicated that the brakes had functioned correctly when they were initially applied by the pilot during the landing roll.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft before reaching the end of the runway, despite the braking system being found in proper working order and skid marks indicating brake application.
What happened in the 26 Jul 1986 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Dodgeville, WI?
A pilot reported that his brakes failed during landing, causing the aircraft to go off the end of the runway and over a 30-foot embankment.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Jul 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N80510, at Dodgeville, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft before reaching the end of the runway, despite the braking system being found in proper working order and skid marks indicating brake application.
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