On June 2, 1993, a Grumman G-164B (registration N6695K) operated by Sells Flying Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Stuttgart, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain directional control due to a left brake malfunction during landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a landing on Runway 36 with light winds, the pilot applied heavy braking when the left brake malfunctioned. The aircraft drifted right into a rice levee and nosed over.
What happened
The accident occurred while the aircraft was landing on Runway 36. Wind conditions at the time were from the southeast at eight knots, with gusts reaching twelve knots. During the rollout, the pilot reported that a gust of wind struck the airplane. In response to the situation, the pilot applied heavy braking. However, the left brake malfunctioned during this application. As a result of the brake failure, the aircraft drifted to the right side of the runway. The plane subsequently impacted a rice levee and nosed over.
The investigation
Investigators examined the condition of the brakes following the accident. They attempted to determine the specific mechanical reason for the brake deficiency. However, the cause of the brake malfunction could not be determined through the available evidence.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain directional control due to a left brake malfunction during landing.