PIPER PA-32R-301T near Auburn, AL — 2010-01-06

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of directional control after landing, which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB narrative

After landing, the pilot applied the brakes to slow the airplane for a left turn off the runway. Instead, the airplane began a turn to the right, which could not be corrected with left brake application. The airplane departed the right side of the runway and came to a stop upright on a grass apron. A postaccident examination of both the left and right brakes by an aircraft mechanic revealed that the brakes turned freely with no dragging noted and that they appeared to be functional at the time of the examination.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Loss of control

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have executed a go-around instead of landing.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control on ground · Landing-landing roll

Evidence available

• Photos
• 6 docket documents

Docket documents6

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1 (Memorandum)form
• FAA Inspector Interviewinterview
• Mechanic Interviewinterview
• Mechanic Statementinterview
• Pilot Statementinterview
• Photo - View of Skid Marks on Runwayphotos

Related mishaps

• CESSNA A185F

  2026-06-27 · Angel Fire, NM

• CESSNA 180H

  2026-06-21 · Port Angeles, WA

• CESSNA 140

  2026-06-01 · Pasco, WA

• EAA Acro Sport II

  2026-05-31 · Sheridan, AR

• PITTS SPECIAL S-1S

  2026-05-29 · Bartlesville, OK

• GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE CORP GVII-G600

  2026-05-27 · Birmingham, AL