Airplane Overturns During Preflight Run-Up After Brake Failure (N431T)

Incident Details

During a preflight engine run-up at the end of the active runway, the right brake of the airplane malfunctioned while the engine was at a high power setting. This caused the airplane to pivot sharply to the left. The pilot reported that the sequence unfolded so rapidly that he may have inadvertently added power while attempting to reduce it. He also stated that he continued pressing the brake pedals, which steered the aircraft left toward a steep bank. The airplane rolled approximately 200 feet and overturned on the side of an embankment.

Investigation Findings

The investigation determined that the right brake hose had ruptured at the caliper, resulting in a loss of right brake fluid and pressure. The brake hose was original equipment, with an age of 28 years. An annual inspection had been performed five months prior to the accident.