Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-181 near Lufkin, TX — 2008-10-11

Final reportCEN09CA020
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Date
2008-10-11
Location
Lufkin, TX, USA
Airport
LFK
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-181
Registration
N764C
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

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.

NTSB narrative

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.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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