N764C

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-28-181S/N: 2843570

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, October 11, 2008
NTSB Number
CEN09CA020
Location
Lufkin, TX
Event ID
20081016X15346
Coordinates
31.233888, -94.750000
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The student pilot's improper decision to takeoff with a known brake problem. Contributing to the accident were the malfunctioning brake and the rough terrain in the excursion area.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N764C
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
2843570
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
2003
Model / ICAO
PA-28-181P28A
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
AIRCRAFT GUARANTY CORP TRUSTEE
Address
PO BOX 2549
Status
Deregistered
City
ONALASKA
State / Zip Code
TX 77360-2549
Country
United States

Analysis

During the landing rollout the airplane's right brake failed and the airplane departed the runway into a ditch, and subsequently impacted a fence. The airplane came to rest in an upright position and the student pilot was able to exit the airplane unassisted. During the accident the airplane's wings sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that prior to initial taxi for the practice flight the airplane's hand brake and right brake pedal felt "spongy." Both became firm after he pumped them several times. Before the engine run-up the student pilot again attempted to activate the hand brake; however, he was only successful after pumping it several times. The pilot then elected to takeoff.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN09CA020