No fatalities

Brake Failure After Landing Leads to Ground Loop (N8188X)

Healdsburg, CA, US

On April 6, 1997, a Piper PA-34-200T (registration N8188X) was involved in an aviation accident near Healdsburg, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of pressure in the landing gear normal brake system for undetermined reasons requiring the pilot to make an intentional ground loop to stop 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

A pilot experienced a complete brake failure after landing, with both pedals going to the floor. Pumping restored partial right brake function, but insufficient runway remained to stop, resulting in a veer-off and ground loop.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that a landing was normal until touchdown. Upon applying wheel brakes, both brake pedals traveled fully downward without resistance. By rapidly pumping the brakes, the pilot was able to restore partial braking action only from the right brake.

Sequence of Events

Realizing that the aircraft could not be stopped on the 2,700-foot runway and that insufficient distance remained to attempt a go-around, the pilot intentionally allowed the aircraft to veer to the right. The aircraft departed the runway surface and ground-looped in a run-up area.

Brake System History

According to the pilot, the brakes had functioned properly during two previous landings earlier that same morning. No preexisting brake issues were noted before the flight.

Investigation Findings

The cause of the brake failure could not be determined. No mechanical discrepancies or anomalies were identified in the brake system during post-incident examination that would explain the sudden loss of braking effectiveness.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Apr 1997 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Healdsburg, CA?

A pilot experienced a complete brake failure after landing, with both pedals going to the floor. Pumping restored partial right brake function, but insufficient runway remained to stop, resulting in a veer-off and ground loop.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Apr 1997 Piper PA-34-200T accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Apr 1997 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N8188X, at Healdsburg, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of pressure in the landing gear normal brake system for undetermined reasons requiring the pilot to make an intentional ground loop to stop the aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07750. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.