On June 1, 1995, an American AA-1 (registration N6214L) operated by Richard D. Mcchesney was involved in an aviation accident near Rock Hill, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN INOPERATIVE LEFT MAIN WHEEL BRAKE THAT RESULTED IN A LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. A FACTOR WAS THE WET, GRASS RUNWAY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost control of an airplane on a wet sod runway, causing it to veer right and collide with terrain. Post-accident repairs included rebuilding the left brake caliper due to inadequate brake authority.
Accident Details
A pilot landed a single-engine airplane on a 2,600-foot wet, sod runway. The aircraft is equipped with a non-steerable nose wheel.
Sequence of Events
Upon touchdown, the pilot used rudder and brakes to maintain the centerline. Approximately three-quarters down the runway, the pilot lost control, and the airplane suddenly veered right. It collided with terrain and came to a complete stop 10 feet off the runway.
Post-Accident Actions
Following the accident, repairs were made to the airplane, including rebuilding the left brake caliper because of inadequate brake authority.