2006-06-03: Piper PA-18-150 — Jack Hoffman — Birchwood, AK

Casualties unknown • Birchwood, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's improper servicing/adjustment of the main landing gear brakes, which resulted in a locked brake and a loss of control while taxiing.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The private pilot reported that he was taxiing for takeoff on a personal, cross-country flight under Title 14, CFR part 91, when the left brake locked. According to a witness, the pilot stated that he had serviced the brakes prior to taxiing. A mechanic repairing the airplane said he found that the left brake was over-serviced with fluid, and that the right brake linkage was improperly adjusted, leaving the left brake tight, and the right brake loose. The airplane sustained damage to its wings, wing spars, and horizontal stabilizer.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-06-03 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Birchwood, AK?

The private pilot reported that he was taxiing for takeoff on a personal, cross-country flight under Title 14, CFR part 91, when the left brake locked. According to a witness, the pilot stated that he had serviced the brakes prior to taxiing. A mechanic repairing the airplane said he found that the left brake was…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-06-03 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N7452J, operated by Jack Hoffman, at Birchwood, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper servicing/adjustment of the main landing gear brakes, which resulted in a locked brake and a loss of control while taxiing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060622X00802. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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