On October 23, 2006, a Piper PA-20-135 (registration N3404A) operated by Steve Libby was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in an inadvertent ground loop and encounter with terrain. Factors associated with the accident were the ground loop and inadequate main wheel brakes. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During touch-and-go practice, the airplane veered right, exited the runway, and ground-looped after the pilot reported poor brake function. Damage occurred to the left wingtip, elevator, fuselage longeron, and main landing gear.
Incident Overview
A commercial certificated pilot was conducting touch-and-go takeoffs and landings under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The airplane sustained damage after veering off the runway and ground-looping during the landing roll.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that prior to the accident takeoff, the airplane's brakes functioned but worked "poorly." During the landing roll, the airplane veered sharply to the right. The pilot stated he was unable to correct the deviation using both the brakes and rudder controls. The airplane subsequently exited the right side of the runway and ground-looped.
Damage
The airplane received damage to the left wingtip, left elevator, fuselage lower longeron, and left main landing gear.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Oct 2006 Piper PA-20-135 accident near Anchorage, AK?
During touch-and-go practice, the airplane veered right, exited the runway, and ground-looped after the pilot reported poor brake function. Damage occurred to the left wingtip, elevator, fuselage longeron, and main landing gear.
Were there any fatalities in the 23 Oct 2006 Piper PA-20-135 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Oct 2006 involved a Piper PA-20-135, registration N3404A, operated by Steve Libby, at Anchorage, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in an inadvertent ground loop and encounter with terrain. Factors associated with the accident were the ground loop and inadequate main wheel brakes.