Colorado Aviation Accidents & Incidents

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2310 Total Accidents 425 Fatal 816 Fatalities 1982-2026
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Rifle, Colorado

August 13, 2009 · NTSB CEN09CA520 · GRAHN J/GRAHN G PITTS S2S (N540S)
Minor/None
Note: This analysis may be based on NTSB preliminary reports, which represent an initial, incomplete investigation. Facts can change as the investigation progresses, and preliminary findings should not be assumed to be accurate or final. For older events, a final NTSB report may have been issued β€” always consult the NTSB Aviation Query for the authoritative record.

NTSB Narrative

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the pilot had just completed practice for his air show performance and was landing on runway 26. The pilot stated that he landed fast and while braking to make an intersection, the brakes became hot and the right brake began to fade. The airplane began to track to the left and the pilot steered the airplane between two taxi lights. The airplane impacted a taxiway sign, breaking the right lower right inboard spar. The pilot did not see the sign prior to impact. An examination of the airplane, conducted by the FAA, revealed no mechanical anomalies. The pilot's excessive landing speed and subsequent excessive brake application which resulted in a loss of control and impact with an airport sign.

Case Study & Lessons Learned

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NTSB Findings

  • Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Descent/approach/glide path-Incorrect use/operation - C
  • Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Surface speed/braking-Not attained/maintained - C
  • Aircraft-Aircraft systems-Landing gear system-Brake-Capability exceeded
  • Personnel issues-Task performance-Use of equip/info-Use of equip/system-Pilot - C

Details

NTSB ReportCEN09CA520
AircraftGRAHN J/GRAHN G PITTS S2S
RegistrationN540S
DamageSUBS
FAR Part091
Location39.5261, -107.7269
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