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Aircraft Runs Off Runway After Brake Failure During Taxi (N47881)

Jesup, GA, US

On October 18, 2000, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N47881) was involved in an aviation accident near Jesup, GA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A total failure of the wheel braking system due to the pilot's improper use of braking in downwind, downhill conditions, resulting in overheated brakes, and subsequent encounter with a downslope and terrain collision. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft taxiing eastbound on runway 10 for a westbound departure from runway 28 experienced brake failure at the run-up area, causing it to run off the hardtop and down a steep embankment. Post-crash inspection revealed damage to the cowling, propeller, collapsed nose gear, and lower longeron buckling.

Accident Details

The pilot reported, and an aircraft inspector witness confirmed, that the aircraft was taxiing eastbound on runway 10 in preparation for a westbound departure from runway 28. The wind was approximately 8 knots from the tail, and the taxi route was downhill. The aircraft was at full fuel capacity and carried one passenger plus luggage for two persons.

Upon reaching the run-up area for runway 28, the brakes failed. The aircraft subsequently ran off the paved surface (hardtop) and proceeded down an embankment with an estimated slope of 35 to 45 degrees.

Aircraft Damage

Examination of the aircraft after the accident revealed damage to the cowling, propeller, collapsed nose gear, and buckling of the lower longeron.

Post-Crash Brake Examination

Post-crash testing of the brakes indicated that they operated normally; however, the brake components exhibited signs of extreme heat.

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Oct 2000 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Jesup, GA?

An aircraft taxiing eastbound on runway 10 for a westbound departure from runway 28 experienced brake failure at the run-up area, causing it to run off the hardtop and down a steep embankment. Post-crash inspection revealed damage to the cowling, propeller, collapsed nose gear, and lower longeron buckling.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Oct 2000 Piper PA-28-161 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Oct 2000 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N47881, at Jesup, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A total failure of the wheel braking system due to the pilot's improper use of braking in downwind, downhill conditions, resulting in overheated brakes, and subsequent encounter with a downslope and terrain collision.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22212. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.