Casualties unknown

Worn Brake Pads Prevent Aircraft from Stopping on Runway (N61923)

Mineola, TX, US

On August 31, 1986, a Cessna 172M (registration N61923) was involved in an aviation accident near Mineola, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inboard brake pads were worn to metal-to-metal contact, which greatly reduced braking ability. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

The aircraft's inboard brake pads were worn to metal-to-metal contact, greatly reducing braking ability. After landing, the pilot could not stop on the 3,225-foot runway, and the aircraft ran through a barbed wire fence, resulting in substantial damage.

Incident Overview

During landing, the pilot of the aircraft was unable to bring the aircraft to a stop within the 3,225-foot runway. The aircraft continued beyond the runway surface and collided with a barbed wire fence, which resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.

Brake Condition

Examination of the braking system revealed that the inboard brake pads had been worn to such a degree that metal-to-metal contact was occurring between the brake pads and the rotor. This condition severely compromised the braking effectiveness of the aircraft.

Maintenance History

The aircraft's most recent annual inspection had been completed on April 16, 1986. It is noted that an adequate inspection of the brake system was likely not performed during that inspection, as the brake pads were completely worn out only 4.5 months later. The number of flight hours accumulated between the inspection and the incident is unknown.

Probable cause

The inboard brake pads were worn to metal-to-metal contact, which greatly reduced braking ability.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Aug 1986 Cessna 172M accident near Mineola, TX?

The aircraft's inboard brake pads were worn to metal-to-metal contact, greatly reducing braking ability. After landing, the pilot could not stop on the 3,225-foot runway, and the aircraft ran through a barbed wire fence, resulting in substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Aug 1986 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N61923, at Mineola, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inboard brake pads were worn to metal-to-metal contact, which greatly reduced braking ability.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34495. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.