Probable cause
The pilot did not maintain directional control during the landing roll out when the right brake did not release completely after he applied, then released brake pressure, which resulted in a ground loop. Contributing to the accident was the taxi speed.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that he had completed four landings, and while at a fast taxi he touched both toe brakes. The airplane began a gradual turn to the right. He corrected the right turn first with left rudder control then left brake, however, neither action corrected the tightening right-hand turn. When the airplane encountered the edge of the runway, it nosed down and tilted to the left, substantially damaging the left wing. The pilot described the right brake as "dragging" throughout the accident sequence.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA090 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 4, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Marana, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Marana Regional Airport (KAVQ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 140
- N-number
- N76463
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.