Collision During Taxi
Two Cessna 402C aircraft, registered N26514 and N812AN, collided while taxiing for departure. The flight crew of N26514 reported that they had taxied to the end of the runway and stopped at the hold short line. Approximately one minute later, they felt a large jolt from behind.
The pilot of N812AN stated that as she approached the rear of the other aircraft, she applied the brakes but they had no effect on the speed of the aircraft.
Previous Brake Issue
A company pilot who had flown N812AN in revenue line operations on February 11 reported experiencing a fading of the left brake pedal during landing. After reapplying the brake pedal, the problem did not repeat itself.
Post-Accident Examination
On the day of the accident, an FAA A&P mechanic examined the brake system of N812AN. In his written report, the mechanic stated that the left brake master cylinder was faulty. Under hard braking, the left brake operated normally; however, under less forceful brake application, the pedal would gradually sink to the bottom of its travel, preventing the pressurization of the left brake system.