Casualties unknown

1995-04-23: Stinson 108-2 (N978D) — Clarion, PA

Clarion, PA, US

On April 23, 1995, a Stinson 108-2 (registration N978D) was involved in an aviation accident near Clarion, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A PARTIAL FAILURE OF THE BRAKE 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During landing roll, a gust of wind turned the airplane left; right brake application was ineffective due to spongy pedals, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and nose over.

Incident Overview

The pilot reported that during the landing roll, a gust of wind caused the airplane to turn to the left. In an attempt to correct the deviation, the pilot applied the right brake, but the input did not produce the desired effect. The airplane subsequently veered off the left side of the runway, traveled down an embankment, and nosed over.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident examination of the braking system revealed that both brake pedals exhibited a spongy feel. Additionally, when the right brake pedal was released slightly and then reapplied, it would bottom out completely to the floor, indicating a loss of hydraulic pressure or mechanical deficiency.

Sequence of Events

The loss of effective braking on the right side, combined with the gusty wind conditions, led to the loss of directional control. The airplane departed the runway surface, descended the embankment, and overturned. No further details regarding injuries, aircraft damage, or other factors were provided in the investigation source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03373. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.