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Left Brake Failure Leads to Ground Loop on Private Airstrip (N7741A)

Skwentna, AK, US

On August 8, 2007, a Cessna 180 (registration N7741A) was involved in an aviation accident near Skwentna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the left brake, and the pilot's continued operation with a known defect (the left brake), which resulted in a loss of control during the landing roll, and an on ground encounter with terrain. 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 commercial pilot delivering supplies to a lodge experienced left brake failure during landing, resulting in a ground loop and structural damage to the right wing.

Accident Overview

A commercial certificated pilot was conducting a supply flight to a private lodge under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The accident occurred while landing on a private, 1,200-foot long dirt airstrip.

Pilot Account

According to the pilot, upon landing the left brake failed. As he approached the end of the airstrip, he attempted a 180-degree turn, but the airplane ground-looped and the right wing struck the ground.

Previous Maintenance Issue

The pilot reported that on previous flights, he had to pump up the left brake due to a leaking master cylinder.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained structural damage to the right wing during the accident.

Investigation Notes

No further details were provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, date, time, weather, or other factors.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Aug 2007 Cessna 180 accident near Skwentna, AK?

A commercial pilot delivering supplies to a lodge experienced left brake failure during landing, resulting in a ground loop and structural damage to the right wing.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Aug 2007 Cessna 180 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Aug 2007 involved a Cessna 180, registration N7741A, at Skwentna, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the left brake, and the pilot's continued operation with a known defect (the left brake), which resulted in a loss of control during the landing roll, and an on ground encounter with terrain. A contributing factor to the accident was the pilot's inadvertent ground loop.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070905X01316. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.