Casualties unknown

Left Brake Lock-Up and Right Main Landing Gear Collapse During Takeoff (N180DK)

Sedona, AZ, US

On June 9, 1994, a Cessna 180J (registration N180DK) was involved in an aviation accident near Sedona, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loss of directional control due to a locked brake from a leaking hydraulic system. 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

An airplane veered left during takeoff, leading to the collapse of the right main landing gear. Investigation found the left brake was locked up due to a misaligned torque plate, with hydraulic fluid seepage contributing to brake assembly contamination.

Incident Description

During the takeoff roll, the airplane unexpectedly veered to the left. Subsequently, the right main landing gear collapsed. The sequence of events was reported by the mechanic who later examined the aircraft.

Examination Findings

An airframe and powerplant mechanic conducted a post-incident examination of the brakes. The left brake was found to have locked up. Specifically, the brake torque plate was misaligned, causing the brake shoe to jam against the wheel. Additionally, the mechanic noted in his report that the brake cylinders had been seeping hydraulic fluid. This fluid, mixed with brake dust and dirt, had accumulated on and covered the brake caliper assembly. No other findings were reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jun 1994 Cessna 180J accident near Sedona, AZ?

An airplane veered left during takeoff, leading to the collapse of the right main landing gear. Investigation found the left brake was locked up due to a misaligned torque plate, with hydraulic fluid seepage contributing to brake assembly contamination.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jun 1994 involved a Cessna 180J, registration N180DK, at Sedona, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

a loss of directional control due to a locked brake from a leaking hydraulic system.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01563. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.