What happened
The pilot reported that during a touch-and-go landing maneuver, the aircraft began to drift toward the left side of the runway. In an effort to maintain alignment with the runway centerline, the pilot applied right rudder pressure and utilized the right brake pedal to counteract the deviation. Despite these corrective inputs, the aircraft continued its trajectory off the paved surface and into an adjacent grassy area.
Upon coming to a stop, the aircraft sustained significant structural damage. The nose landing gear collapsed, as did the right main landing gear assembly. A post-accident examination of the airframe revealed that the left brake was locked in place, preventing the associated wheel from turning freely. This mechanical restriction likely contributed to the uncommanded veering to the left during the critical phase of flight.
The investigation
A physical inspection of the aircraft following the incident confirmed the collapse of the nose and right main landing gear struts. Further examination of the braking system identified that the left brake assembly was locked, which inhibited normal wheel rotation. This mechanical failure provided a plausible explanation for the aircraft's tendency to veer left during the ground roll.
Findings
- The pilot's attempt to correct the veer using right rudder and brake was insufficient due to the mechanical restriction.
- The left brake was locked, causing the wheel assembly to not turn.
- The aircraft departed the runway surface and entered a grassy area.
- Structural damage included the collapse of the nose and right main landing gear.