On July 14, 1993, a Piper PA-20 (registration N4946M) operated by Garbowski, Henry was involved in an aviation accident near Circle Hot Spri, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during taxi due to an apparent brake drag, which led to the aircraft leaving the runway and striking a tree. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot reported a dragging left wheel while taxiing. After adding power to clear ruts, the aircraft veered off the runway and struck a tree.
What happened
The pilot-in-command reported experiencing an unusual sensation during the taxi phase of flight. He stated that he felt as though a rock had become jammed in either the left brake assembly or the wheel itself. This assessment was based on his perception that the left wheel was dragging as the aircraft moved along the ground.
To address the issue, the pilot added power to the engine. At this same time, the airplane traversed a section of the taxiway characterized by ruts. Following this maneuver, the aircraft executed a quick turn. During this turn, the airplane departed the paved surface of the runway and collided with a tree.
The investigation
The available source material does not contain specific details regarding mechanical examinations or post-accident findings beyond the pilot's initial report.
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during taxi due to an apparent brake drag, which led to the aircraft leaving the runway and striking a tree.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Jul 1993 Piper PA-20 accident near Circle Hot Spri, AK?
The pilot reported a dragging left wheel while taxiing. After adding power to clear ruts, the aircraft veered off the runway and struck a tree.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Jul 1993 involved a Piper PA-20, registration N4946M, operated by Garbowski, Henry, at Circle Hot Spri, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's loss of directional control during taxi due to an apparent brake drag, which led to the aircraft leaving the runway and striking a tree.
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