On May 15, 1993, a Cessna 305A (registration N5225G) operated by Banner Advertising, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Collins, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN EXCESSIVE RATE OF DESCENT RESULTING IN A HARD LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During final approach, the aircraft experienced a hard touchdown on the right main landing gear, followed by a loss of directional control and excursion into a ditch. The pilot reported right brake fade, but tests found no brake malfunction.
Incident Details
During final approach for a full stop landing, witnesses reported that the aircraft appeared to be under marginal control. Touchdown was hard on the right main landing gear. Following initial touchdown, the aircraft swerved to the right, then arced to the left, departing the side of the runway and coming to rest in a ditch. The pilot reported that the right brake faded and he could not maintain directional control.
Investigation Findings
Witness marks provided evidence of skidding of the right main gear from shortly after touchdown until the aircraft entered the ditch. Examination provided evidence of touchdown damage to the right main landing gear assembly, which would cause the aircraft to turn to the left. Brake system tests revealed no evidence of failure or malfunction.