Casualties unknown

1997-08-27: Air Tractor AT-802A (N9197F) — Mark E. Lane — Pineland, TX

Pineland, TX, US

On August 27, 1997, an Air Tractor AT-802A (registration N9197F) operated by Mark E. Lane was involved in an aviation accident near Pineland, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the right main wheel brake, during the landing roll. A factor relating to the accident was: the pilot's failure (or inability) to maintain directional control of the airplane, after loss of right braking action. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot returning to Pineland with a full chemical load reported a right brake failure during landing on runway 35, causing a ground loop that folded the right main gear and bent the right wing.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot's account, the flight departed from Pineland carrying a load of chemicals. The pilot was unable to locate the assigned field and subsequently returned to the airport with the full load intact. The landing was conducted on runway 35.

Landing and Mechanical Issue

During the landing roll, the pilot attempted to decelerate the aircraft by engaging Beta mode. However, the right brake failed to operate as expected. The pilot reported that the resulting engine torque then pulled the aircraft to the left, initiating a ground loop.

Damage Sustained

As the ground loop occurred, the right main landing gear collapsed and folded under the fuselage. Additionally, the right wing sustained structural damage, bending at the midpoint.

Pilot Statement

The pilot's description of the event indicates that the right brake failure and subsequent asymmetric thrust from the engine torque were the immediate causes of the loss of directional control, leading to the ground loop and consequent damage.

Investigation Findings

The investigation relied solely on the pilot's report. No further determination of causal factors or contributing elements was provided. The aircraft's specific type, registration, operator, and other operational details were not disclosed in the available information.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08641. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.