What happened
On September 18, 2025, at approximately 16:40 CDT, a Cessna 525C, registration N577RT, was involved in an accident near Mayfield, Kentucky. The aircraft was operating as a Part 91 repositioning flight, traveling from St. Louis Regional Airport (ALN) in St. Louis, Illinois, to its base at Mayfield Graves County Airport (M25).
The pilot reported that the flight proceeded normally through the preflight, taxi, takeoff, and en route phases. During the initial descent into M25, the pilot deployed the speed brakes to assist with the descent and slowing the aircraft. The pilot prepared for a straight-in, visual approach for runway 19. While the pilot noted that the aircraft configuration occurred later than intended, he stated the airplane was fully configured and stabilized for the approach.
Upon touchdown on the runway centerline, the pilot deployed the ground spoilers and applied firm braking. However, the pilot observed no braking action as the aircraft continued to roll down the runway. Despite applying increased pressure to the brakes, the aircraft began to veer to the right. The pilot determined there was insufficient runway remaining to perform a go-around and continued to apply brakes and downward force on the yoke while attempting to maintain the centerline. The aircraft subsequently exited the end of the runway, passed through the airport perimeter fence, crossed a road, and struck a house.
There were no injuries to the pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft.
The investigation
An examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector determined that the Cessna 525C sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and the left wing. The aircraft was retained for further examination.