No fatalities

Cessna 172 exits runway after swerving during training landing (N8840W)

Havasu Lake, CA, US

On March 20, 1992, a Piper PA28-235 (registration N8840W) operated by Krill, Bryan was involved in an aviation accident near Havasu Lake, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper use of brakes during landing rollout, which led to a loss of directional control and runway excursion. 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

During a local area training flight, a dual student and CFI practiced takeoffs and landings. On the first landing, the aircraft touched down normally but swerved left when the hand brake was applied, resulting in an exit from the runway.

What happened

A certified flight instructor (CFI) was conducting local area training maneuvers with a dual student who also owned the aircraft. After completing the initial portion of the training, the CFI instructed the pilot to proceed to the airport to practice additional takeoffs and landings.

During the first landing attempt, the airplane touched down on the runway normally. However, shortly after touchdown, the pilot applied the hand brake. This action caused the aircraft to swerve sharply to the left. The loss of directional control resulted in the airplane exiting the runway surface.

Probable cause

The pilot's improper use of brakes during landing rollout, which led to a loss of directional control and runway excursion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Mar 1992 Piper PA28-235 accident near Havasu Lake, CA?

During a local area training flight, a dual student and CFI practiced takeoffs and landings. On the first landing, the aircraft touched down normally but swerved left when the hand brake was applied, resulting in an exit from the runway.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Mar 1992 Piper PA28-235 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Mar 1992 involved a Piper PA28-235, registration N8840W, operated by Krill, Bryan, at Havasu Lake, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper use of brakes during landing rollout, which led to a loss of directional control and runway excursion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14320. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.