No fatalities

Left Brake Failure Leads to Ground Loop and Landing Gear Collapse (N48571)

Wilder, ID, US

On July 19, 1994, a Grumman G-164B (registration N48571) operated by Carol E. Hibbs was involved in an aviation accident near Wilder, ID. No fatalities were reported. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

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.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Jul 1994 Grumman G-164B accident near Wilder, ID?

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.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Jul 1994 Grumman G-164B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Jul 1994 involved a Grumman G-164B, registration N48571, operated by Carol E. Hibbs, at Wilder, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

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.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01889. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.