This April 2009 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Piper Navajo. Injuries: None. Location: Newark, N.J. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot aborted a takeoff because he was unable to maintain directional control of the airplane. He taxied the airplane to parking and inspected it visually. He decided to attempt another takeoff and obtained a clearance to taxi. During taxi, the control tower directed the pilot to complete a 180° turn. While turning, the pilot experienced a loss of brake pressure and directional control. He applied asymmetrical engine power in an effort to complete the turn, but could not regain control in time to keep the left wing from hitting a fence post.
Inspection of the airplane by the FAA revealed inoperative brakes on the airplane’s right side.
Probable cause: The pilot’s decision to continue to operate the airplane with inoperative brakes on the airplane’s right side.
For more information: NTSB.gov
