Incident Summary
During a night landing, the aircraft contacted the runway and bounced. The pilot reported that following the bounce, the aircraft veered to the right and departed the right side of the runway. She then added power to execute a go-around. A witness on the ground observed the aircraft as it lifted off, describing the takeoff as a "stagger" into the air. Shortly after becoming airborne, the aircraft struck a bale of hay located approximately 150 feet to the right of the runway. The impact caused damage to the aircraft.
Pilot Statement
The pilot indicated that she suspected the right brake had seized, which she believed caused the aircraft to turn right and exit the runway. She did not report any other anomalies with the aircraft's systems or controls during the approach or landing.
Brake System Examination
Following the incident, the aircraft's right brake was operationally checked. The check revealed no malfunctions. A subsequent disassembly of the brake assembly was performed to inspect for internal issues. The inspection found no evidence of a seizure, failure, or any other malfunction. The brake components were within normal operating parameters and showed no signs of abnormal wear or damage.
Witness Observation
A witness who observed the incident reported that after the aircraft left the runway, it "staggered" into the air. The witness did not provide additional details regarding the aircraft's attitude or flight path prior to the hay bale strike.
Findings
The investigation did not identify any mechanical deficiencies in the brake system that would explain the directional excursion. The cause of the aircraft deviating from the runway and subsequently striking the hay bale was not determined. No other contributing factors were reported.