On July 26, 1995, a Cessna 550 (registration N72WC) was involved in an aviation accident near Minneapolis, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the landing gear braking system for undetermined reason(s) and the pilot's failure to perform the emergency procedure of operating the emergency brake system. Rough/uneven terrain was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing roll, the pilot reported no brake effect despite deploying thrust reversers and applying brakes. The aircraft veered off the runway and was damaged. Postaccident examination found no anomalies in the brake system.
Accident Overview
According to the pilot's report, during the landing roll he deployed the thrust reversers and applied the brakes to stop the airplane, but the brakes had no effect. A mechanic seated in the right seat also depressed the brakes on the right side, but they did not operate. The airplane then veered off the left side of the runway and came to rest approximately 800 feet off the end of the runway. After departing the runway, the airplane encountered uneven terrain and was damaged.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination revealed no anomalies with the brake system, anti-lock system, or the thrust reversers. The transducers and control valves were removed and tested; all tests were satisfactory and met manufacturer limits.
Pilot Statement
After the accident, the pilot stated that he did not operate the emergency brake, as recommended or required by the emergency procedure.