Aircraft Overruns Runway 31 After Brake Ineffectiveness

Casualties unknown • Venice, FL, US

An aircraft veered off the end of runway 31 after the pilot experienced a period of ineffective braking during touchdown, resulting in a collapsed landing gear.

What happened

The pilot reported that the aircraft touched down on runway 31 at 80 knots, just south of the intersection with runway 04/22. Upon initial application of the brakes, the pilot found they were not effective. After several pumping actions, the brakes regained functionality. Although the pilot then applied heavy braking, the aircraft continued to roll and exited the end of the runway. The pilot noted that a go-around was not a viable option due to the aircraft's position on the runway. Prior to the accident, no issues with the brakes or the parking brake had been observed during taxiing or the engine run-up before takeoff.

The investigation

An FAA inspector examined the runway following the accident and identified approximately 250 feet of skid marks from both main landing gear tires at the departure end of the runway. These skid marks extended an additional 50 feet beyond the runway pavement. A mechanical examination of the aircraft revealed that the left main landing gear tire had a flat spot, while the right main landing gear tire was blown and flat spotted. The excursion resulted in the collapse of the right main landing gear.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-04-27 Piper PA-34-200 accident near Venice, FL?

An aircraft veered off the end of runway 31 after the pilot experienced a period of ineffective braking during touchdown, resulting in a collapsed landing gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-04-27 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N876BB, at Venice, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the pilot to attain the proper touchdown point resulting in a long landing and subsequent collapse of the right main landing gear. Also, failure of the pilot to perform a go-around following a long landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010503X00868. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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