PIPER PA-31-325
Newark, NJ — April 2, 2009
Event Information
| Date | April 2, 2009 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | ERA09CA227 |
| Event ID | 20090403X81847 |
| Location | Newark, NJ |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 40.69250, -74.16861 |
| Airport | Newark Liberty Int. Airport |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | PA-31-325 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 2 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's decision to continue to operate the airplane with inoperative brakes on the airplane's right side.
Full Narrative
The pilot aborted a previous takeoff because he was unable to maintain directional control of the airplane. He taxied the airplane to parking, inspected it visually, and elected to attempt another takeoff. During taxi, the control tower directed the pilot to complete a 180-degree turn. While turning, the pilot experienced a loss of brake pressure and directional control. He then applied asymmetrical engine power in an effort to complete the turn, but struck a fence post, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing. Inspection of the airplane by the Federal Aviation Administration revealed inoperative brakes on the airplane's right side.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.