Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Brake Asymmetry During Landing; Aircraft Veers Off Runway (N7149Q)

Newburyport, MA, US

On June 7, 2003, a Cessna 172L (registration N7149Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Newburyport, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain the proper touchdown point. 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 reported that during landing, brakes initially had no response, then the right brake engaged causing the aircraft to veer right into grass and through a fence. FAA inspection found no mechanical anomalies.

Incident Details

A pilot reported that during the landing, he described the approach as "a little hot." Upon applying the brakes, the pilot initially received no deceleration response from the aircraft. Subsequently, the right brake engaged abruptly, causing the aircraft to veer to the right. The aircraft departed the paved surface and entered the grass. It continued through a fence located at the end of the runway before coming to a stop.

Aircraft Examination

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined the aircraft following the incident. The inspection revealed no mechanical anomalies with the aircraft's braking system or other components. Additionally, skid marks were observed on the runway surface approximately halfway along its length.

Summary

The pilot's account indicates a sudden brake asymmetry after an initial lack of braking response. The aircraft left the runway, traversed grass, and struck a fence. The FAA inspection found no evidence of mechanical defects. Skid marks on the runway suggest some braking action occurred, but the sequence of events led to the departure from the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jun 2003 Cessna 172L accident near Newburyport, MA?

A pilot reported that during landing, brakes initially had no response, then the right brake engaged causing the aircraft to veer right into grass and through a fence. FAA inspection found no mechanical anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jun 2003 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N7149Q, at Newburyport, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to attain the proper touchdown point.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030710X01053. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.