Aircraft Collides with Stationary Cessna 152 During Taxi (N97056)

Narrative

The pilot of an airplane taxiing to the run-up area collided with a Cessna 152 that was stationary with its engine running. Before taxiing, the pilot had completed a preflight inspection and a brake check; both indicated that the airplane was without abnormalities. He taxied at an engine speed of 1,000 rpm, which resulted in a taxi speed of approximately 13 miles per hour. Just before reaching the run-up area, the pilot began reducing the throttle and applied brake pressure. However, the right brake did not respond. In an effort to avoid a propeller strike, the pilot chose to remain on the taxiway. He then applied full left brake pressure, causing the airplane's left wing tip to collide with the Cessna 152's vertical stabilizer. The airplane continued to the left and departed the taxiway.

Investigation Findings

The operator stated that during recovery, the airplane's brakes were tested. Both brakes appeared to be functioning properly. A repair shop that assessed the damage performed a thorough inspection and could not find any malfunction of the braking system.