Background
On March 6, 2008, the first officer updated the Jepson Database and, during the process, pulled the brake circuit breaker to prevent the brake hydraulic motor from continuously cycling. The circuit breaker was not restored when the airplane was returned to normal operating condition.
Incident
On March 8, 2008, the first officer was performing co-pilot duties. After receiving clearance, the pilot in command began taxiing. The first officer started programming the flight management system. The weather conditions included a strong, gusty wind from the left. The taxi route required a 90-degree right turn to join the taxiway. The pilot in command made a comment about the brakes. The first officer looked up and observed that the airplane was heading toward a parked unoccupied airplane on the opposite side of the taxiway. The airplane subsequently struck the parked airplane.
Crew Statements
According to both crew members, due to the direction of the wind, nose-wheel steering alone was insufficient to turn the airplane onto the taxiway. Brakes were needed but were not available because the brake circuit breaker had been left pulled. Emergency brakes were not used.