On August 9, 1992, a Cessna 320A (registration N3014R) operated by Craig, Michael was involved in an aviation accident near Novato, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOCKED LEFT BRAKE ASSEMBLY DUE TO THE MISSING BRAKE RETAINING CLIPS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A visual flight rules personal flight ended with a runway excursion when the airplane swerved left on touchdown, exited the runway, and collided with a gully. Investigation found a locked left brake caused by a dislodged brake disk and missing brake clips.
Incident Narrative
The pilot was concluding a visual flight rules personal flight. Upon touchdown, the airplane swerved to the left. The pilot applied opposite rudder and power, but the airplane could not be corrected and exited the runway environment, colliding with a gully.
Examination Findings
Left tire skid marks were observed beginning at the touchdown point. Examination of the left brake assembly disclosed that the brake disk had partially come out of its attach point and jammed against the housing, effecting a locked brake. The examination also revealed that all but one of the brake clips were missing.
