FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Takeoff Runway Excursion Due to Brake Fluid Loss (N93766)

Dover Foxcroft, ME, US

On September 3, 1992, a Cessna 185 (registration N93766) operated by Pat Andrews was involved in an aviation accident near Dover Foxcroft, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE SERVICING OF THE AIRCRAFT WHICH RESULTED IN THE LACK OF HYDRAULIC FLUID AND THE CONSEQUENT LOSS OF BRAKE PRESURE. 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

During the takeoff roll, the airplane veered left; the pilot's right brake had no response. The airplane exited the runway, descended an embankment, and nosed over. Investigation found no brake fluid in the right brake reservoir.

Accident Sequence

During the takeoff roll, the airplane began to deviate left of the runway centerline. The pilot applied the right brake but received no response. Attempting to regain control, the pilot advanced the throttle to gain tail rudder authority, but this maneuver proved ineffective. The airplane continued veering off the runway and down an embankment. As the airplane tipped over the embankment, the pilot's knee inadvertently pushed the throttle forward, causing a burst of engine power. The airplane proceeded down the embankment and nosed over.

Investigation Findings

On-scene investigation revealed that there was no brake fluid in the right brake reservoir. No signs of fluid leakage were detected throughout the brake system. Examination of the brake system did not reveal any anomalies. The pilot reported that he conducted a brake check prior to takeoff and observed no malfunction. The airplane had accumulated 153 hours of operation since its last annual inspection, which was performed 11 months earlier.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Sept 1992 Cessna 185 accident near Dover Foxcroft, ME?

During the takeoff roll, the airplane veered left; the pilot's right brake had no response. The airplane exited the runway, descended an embankment, and nosed over. Investigation found no brake fluid in the right brake reservoir.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Sept 1992 involved a Cessna 185, registration N93766, operated by Pat Andrews, at Dover Foxcroft, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

INADEQUATE SERVICING OF THE AIRCRAFT WHICH RESULTED IN THE LACK OF HYDRAULIC FLUID AND THE CONSEQUENT LOSS OF BRAKE PRESURE.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15612. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.