Casualties unknown

Runway Excursion Following Right Brake Failure and Unintended Throttle Advancement (N3116V)

Laconia, NH, US

On December 13, 2003, a Beech 35 (registration N3116V) was involved in an aviation accident near Laconia, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the brake master cylinder. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported right brake failure on touchdown; while attempting to use right seat brakes, he inadvertently pushed the throttle full forward. The airplane departed the left side of the runway, crossed grass and an embankment, and came to rest nose low in a swamp. Examination revealed a failed brake master cylinder.

Incident Summary

During the landing rollout, the pilot observed that the right brake was not functioning. In an effort to regain braking capability, he attempted to move his leg to the right seat rudder pedals. In the process, his knee inadvertently pushed the throttle to the full forward position. The airplane subsequently departed the left side of the runway, traversed a grass area, went over an embankment, and came to rest with the nose low in a swamp.

Pilot's Account

The pilot reported that the right brake failed upon touchdown. He described the sequence of events leading to the inadvertent throttle advancement. The airplane's departure from the runway and final resting position were consistent with his account.

Aircraft Examination

Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed that the brake master cylinder had failed. No other mechanical anomalies were noted.

Probable cause

Failure of the brake master cylinder

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031223X02083. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.