Casualties unknown

Right Main Landing Gear Fire Due to Worn Brakes (CFZJY)

Ft. Myers, FL, US

On October 22, 1987, a Piper PA-32-260 (registration CFZJY) operated by Carlin, Grant A.b. was involved in an aviation accident near Ft. Myers, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Worn brake linings and scarred brake discs leading to overheating and fire in the right main landing gear during a run-up check. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft caught fire during a run-up check after the right main landing gear ignited due to severely worn brake linings and scarred discs.

What happened

According to witness accounts, the aircraft was taxiing at a speed that was slower than typical but maintained engine revolutions per minute (RPM) higher than normal. The pilot brought the aircraft to a stop in the designated run-up area. Shortly after stopping, the right main landing gear assembly caught fire. The resulting blaze burned through the lower surfaces of both wings.

The investigation

Following the incident, investigators examined the brake system components. They found that the brake linings were completely worn out. Additionally, the brake discs were badly scarred from excessive heat and friction.

Probable cause

Worn brake linings and scarred brake discs leading to overheating and fire in the right main landing gear during a run-up check.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Oct 1987 Piper PA-32-260 accident near Ft. Myers, FL?

An aircraft caught fire during a run-up check after the right main landing gear ignited due to severely worn brake linings and scarred discs.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Oct 1987 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration CFZJY, operated by Carlin, Grant A.b., at Ft. Myers, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Worn brake linings and scarred brake discs leading to overheating and fire in the right main landing gear during a run-up check.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32393. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.