What happened
The aircraft was conducting a touch-and-go maneuver when the pilot decided to abort the takeoff. During this abort attempt, witnesses reported hearing the engine accelerate. The pilot applied the brakes prior to retarding the throttle. This sequence of actions resulted in the airplane losing traction because the braking action could not overcome the engine power, which extended the landing roll and caused the aircraft to overrun the runway at the departure end.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the aborted takeoff. Witnesses confirmed that the engine accelerated during the abort attempt. It was determined that the pilot applied the brakes before retarding the throttle. This timing prevented the braking system from effectively slowing the aircraft, as the continued engine power counteracted the braking force.
Findings
The primary factor in this incident was the improper application of flight controls during the abort. The pilot applied the brakes before reducing engine power. This action led to a loss of traction because the braking action could not overcome the engine power. The result was an extended landing roll and runway overrun.
Safety message
Pilots should be aware that applying brakes before retarding the throttle during a rejected takeoff or abort can lead to a loss of braking effectiveness. Proper procedure requires reducing engine power before or simultaneously with brake application to ensure maximum braking efficiency.