On July 19, 1994, a Grumman G-164B (registration N48571) operated by Carol E. Hibbs was involved in an aviation accident near Wilder, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to perform an intentional ground loop after experiencing a left brake failure, which resulted in the collapse of the left landing gear and impact with a dirt bank. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During rollout after landing, the pilot experienced a left brake failure. An attempt to execute an intentional ground loop to avoid a ditch resulted in the collapse of the left landing gear and damage to the lower wing.
What happened
The accident occurred during the rollout phase after the aircraft had landed. The pilot reported that the left brake system failed to function properly. In an effort to maintain directional control and avoid striking a ditch located nearby, the pilot attempted to execute an intentional ground loop maneuver.
During this maneuver, the left landing gear collapsed upon impact with the ground. The aircraft subsequently struck a dirt bank, resulting in significant damage to the left lower wing area.
The investigation
Following the accident, the owner of the aircraft conducted a mechanical inspection to determine the root cause of the brake failure. The examination revealed that the left brake master cylinder had failed due to internal corrosion.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to perform an intentional ground loop after experiencing a left brake failure, which resulted in the collapse of the left landing gear and impact with a dirt bank.