On 2 Apr 2009, a PIPER PA-31-325 operated by EMERSUMS LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Newark, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue to operate the airplane with inoperative brakes on the airplane's right side. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot lost brake pressure and directional control while taxiing, then applied asymmetrical engine power to complete a turn but struck a fence post, causing substantial left wing damage. FAA inspection found inoperative brakes on the right side.
Event Summary
A pilot aborted a previous takeoff after being unable to maintain directional control. After taxiing the airplane to parking and conducting a visual inspection, the pilot elected to attempt another takeoff. During taxi, the control tower directed the pilot to perform a 180-degree turn. While executing the turn, the pilot experienced a loss of brake pressure and directional control. In an effort to complete the turn, the pilot applied asymmetrical engine power. However, the airplane struck a fence post, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing.
Inspection Findings
Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration inspected the airplane. The inspection revealed that the brakes on the airplane's right side were inoperative.