On May 9, 2001, a Cessna 421C (registration N26560) was involved in an aviation accident near Angwin, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control following a right main landing gear brake lockup during rollout; the cause of the brake malfunction could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost directional control after the right main landing gear brake locked up during rollout on a calm day, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and strike a fence pole.
What happened
The flight concluded with a normal landing under calm wind conditions. During the rollout phase, the pilot applied the brakes as expected. However, the right main landing gear brake locked up unexpectedly. The right tire skidded for approximately 600 feet, which caused the pilot to lose directional control of the airplane. The aircraft veered off the runway and traversed a field before colliding with a fence pole.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of control and the subsequent impact. They sought to determine why the brake mechanism failed to function normally during the rollout. Despite the examination, the reason for the brake lockup was not determined.
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control following a right main landing gear brake lockup during rollout; the cause of the brake malfunction could not be determined.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 May 2001 Cessna 421C accident near Angwin, CA?
A pilot lost directional control after the right main landing gear brake locked up during rollout on a calm day, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and strike a fence pole.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 May 2001 involved a Cessna 421C, registration N26560, at Angwin, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's loss of directional control following a right main landing gear brake lockup during rollout; the cause of the brake malfunction could not be determined.
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