Casualties unknown

Landing Incident: Runway Excursion Following Brake Asymmetry (N41977)

Quantico, VA, US

On November 1, 2003, a Piper PA-28-151 (registration N41977) operated by Quantico Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Quantico, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing. A factor was the tail wind. 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 experienced a runway excursion after reporting asymmetric braking during landing. The aircraft struck a concrete block, causing damage to the landing gear and wing. No mechanical deficiencies were found.

Accident Details

The pilot touched down on runway 02, about 500 feet beyond the approach end. The runway was 4,279 feet long, 200 feet wide, with an asphalt surface. On applying the brakes, the pilot reported that the right brake "seemed to pull harder than the left" and immediately released brake pressure. To compensate, the pilot applied left rudder, which caused the airplane to "fishtail" down the runway. The aircraft subsequently veered off the right side of the runway and struck a concrete block, shearing off the right landing gear and damaging the right wing.

Aircraft and Pilot Information

The pilot reported a total flight experience of 89 hours, with 5 hours in the accident make and model. No other details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or operator were provided.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the aircraft revealed no pre-impact mechanical deficiencies. Additionally, no skid marks were observed on the runway surface. The winds at the time were reported from 190 degrees at 6 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Nov 2003 Piper PA-28-151 accident near Quantico, VA?

A pilot experienced a runway excursion after reporting asymmetric braking during landing. The aircraft struck a concrete block, causing damage to the landing gear and wing. No mechanical deficiencies were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Nov 2003 involved a Piper PA-28-151, registration N41977, operated by Quantico Flying Club, at Quantico, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing. A factor was the tail wind.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031120X01926. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.