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 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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA020 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 11, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lufkin, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Angelina County Airport (LFK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-28-181
- N-number
- N764C
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.