No fatalities

Aircraft Wing Strikes Taxiway Sign After Braking Failure (N8124S)

Santa Ana, CA, US

On August 4, 1996, a Piper PA-28-236 (registration N8124S) was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Ana, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's decision to turn off the runway while at an excessive speed that did not allow him to maintain directional control of the aircraft. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During landing, a pilot reported no braking action and veered off the taxiway to avoid other aircraft, resulting in the wing striking a taxiway sign. The braking system was later found to function properly.

Approach and Landing

The aircraft conducted a full flap, full stop approach and touched down just past the runway numbers. As it slowed, the pilot began turning toward a midfield taxiway and applied the brakes, but reported obtaining no braking action.

Evasive Maneuver and Impact

Seeing several other aircraft ahead, the pilot veered off the side of the taxiway. While maneuvering around obstructions, the aircraft's wing struck a taxiway sign.

Post-Incident Findings

FAA inspectors observed S-shaped skid marks on the runway and taxiway at Juliet on the east side of runway 19L. The air traffic control tower ground controller reported no conflicts with taxiing aircraft. The Civil Air Patrol aircraft manager stated that the braking system was inspected after the incident and was found to function properly.

Pilot History

The pilot had been involved in a previous incident involving a loss of directional control while landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Aug 1996 Piper PA-28-236 accident near Santa Ana, CA?

During landing, a pilot reported no braking action and veered off the taxiway to avoid other aircraft, resulting in the wing striking a taxiway sign. The braking system was later found to function properly.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Aug 1996 Piper PA-28-236 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Aug 1996 involved a Piper PA-28-236, registration N8124S, at Santa Ana, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's decision to turn off the runway while at an excessive speed that did not allow him to maintain directional control of the aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06548. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.