Casualties unknown

1995-06-24: Piper PA-34-200 (N56484) — Aero Club — Avalon, CA

Avalon, CA, US

On June 24, 1995, a Piper PA-34-200 (registration N56484) operated by Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Avalon, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: complete brake failure due to improper replacement and service of the brakes by company maintenance personnel. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

After landing on a 3,240-foot runway, the pilot experienced total brake failure, causing the aircraft to overrun and strike an airport boundary fence. Inspection revealed air in the brake lines and spongy pedals.

Accident Overview

An aircraft overran the runway after touchdown and collided with an airport boundary fence. The pilot reported total brake failure upon landing, which prevented stopping the aircraft within the 3,240-foot-long runway.

Inspection Findings

Following the incident, FAA airworthiness inspectors examined the aircraft. They observed that the hydraulic reservoir was three-quarters full and the brake pads appeared new. Both brake pedals were spongy and could be depressed fully to the floor. Further investigation revealed the presence of air in the brake lines.

Recent Maintenance

The aircraft's brakes had been replaced and serviced on June 23, 1995. The accident flight was the first operation conducted after that maintenance work was completed.

Conclusion

The aircraft was unable to stop on the available runway due to total brake failure, resulting in the overrun and collision with the boundary fence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03758. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.