Incident
An aircraft experienced a loss of braking effectiveness while taxiing, resulting in a departure from the taxiway and entry into a ditch. The incident occurred as the pilot attempted to make a turn onto a 45-degree intersecting taxiway connecting with the approach end of runway 13. The aircraft continued straight ahead, off the end of the taxiway, and came to rest in a ditch. The incident resulted in substantial structural damage to the aircraft.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that after a previous landing, while taxiing to the ramp, he noticed that his right brake felt 'mushy'. He had a 'little problem' making two 90-degree right turns. However, once he made two more 90-degree right turns, the brakes began to function normally. Prior to the subsequent departure, the pilot performed a check of both the right and left brakes. They responded normally. He then taxied toward runway 13 along a parallel taxiway.
Upon reaching the 45-degree intersecting taxiway, the pilot applied the brakes to make the turn. The brakes had no effect, and the aircraft did not turn. It continued straight ahead, off the end of the taxiway, and into a ditch. The aircraft sustained substantial structural damage in the incident.
Post-Incident Findings
An inspection of the brakes was conducted following the incident. The inspection revealed no discrepancies. The brakes were found to be in normal operating condition.