Casualties unknown

Turbojet Runway Excursion Ends with Post-Crash Fire (N169RF)

Phoenix, AZ, US

On November 8, 1992, a Sabreliner Corp. N-265-60 (registration N169RF) operated by Price, Halford was involved in an aviation accident near Phoenix, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE DELAY OF THE PIC TO APPLY NORMAL BRAKING AND HIS FAILURE TO EXECUTE THE APPROPRIATE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES. CONTRIBUTING TO THIS ACCIDENT WAS AN UNDETERMINED ANTISKID MALFUNCTION; THE COPILOT'S INEXPERIENCE IN THE AIRCRAFT; AND INADEQUATE CREW COORDINATION. 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 landing rollout, a turbojet aircraft experienced brake failure, overran the runway, and struck obstacles. A post-crash fire destroyed half the aircraft. The crew reported being unable to shut down engines. Investigation found no mechanical malfunction in braking systems.

Landing and Initial Deceleration

Upon completing a cross-country flight, the captain of a turbojet aircraft initiated landing. During the rollout, the captain used aerodynamic braking and thrust reverse to decelerate the airplane to approximately 60 knots. The captain then allowed the airplane to continue rolling toward the end of the runway, near the location of the owner/co-pilot's hangar.

Loss of Braking

With about 4,000 feet of runway remaining, the captain applied the brakes. No braking action was noted. The airplane continued off the end of the runway, through a fence and a block wall, and into a parking lot. During the excursion, the left wing was severed.

Post-Crash Fire

A post-crash fire ignited, consuming approximately half of the airplane. Emergency braking procedures were not employed. The crew reported that they were unable to shut down the engines.

Crew Coordination and Experience

The co-pilot lacked experience in the aircraft. Crew coordination during the approach, landing, and subsequent emergency was ineffective.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the braking and hydraulic systems failed to pinpoint a malfunction. The airplane traveled approximately 11,000 feet from the point of touchdown to its final resting position.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Nov 1992 Sabreliner Corp. N-265-60 accident near Phoenix, AZ?

During landing rollout, a turbojet aircraft experienced brake failure, overran the runway, and struck obstacles. A post-crash fire destroyed half the aircraft. The crew reported being unable to shut down engines. Investigation found no mechanical malfunction in braking systems.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Nov 1992 involved a Sabreliner Corp. N-265-60, registration N169RF, operated by Price, Halford, at Phoenix, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE DELAY OF THE PIC TO APPLY NORMAL BRAKING AND HIS FAILURE TO EXECUTE THE APPROPRIATE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES. CONTRIBUTING TO THIS ACCIDENT WAS AN UNDETERMINED ANTISKID MALFUNCTION; THE COPILOT'S INEXPERIENCE IN THE AIRCRAFT; AND INADEQUATE CREW COORDINATION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X16048. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.