Pilot flying C-182 aircraft reported brake failure during taxi for takeoff.

Date: 2022-04 · Aircraft: Skylane 182/RG Turbo Skylane/RG · Phase: taxi

Anomalies: aircraft-equipment-problem-critical|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-clearance|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-published-material-policy|ground-event-encounter-loss-of-aircraft-control|ground-event-encounter-object|ground-excursion-taxiway

Synopsis

Pilot flying C-182 aircraft reported brake failure during taxi for takeoff.

Narrative

I was flying with a club member who was acting as PIC (Pilot in Command) and I was there as a club CFI for an initial club checkout in our C182. We started the plane uneventfully and taxied up to the hold short line and stopped. We then began taxiing to Runway XX via the Alpha Taxiway after receiving clearance from the Ground Controller. During our taxi; the plane began to increase in speed with the throttle at idle. The PIC then tried to slow down by using his brakes. He was unsuccessful and stated that he didn't have any braking power. I told him that I would then try to stop the aircraft with my brakes. My brakes were also ineffective; and the plane began moving to the left. I once again tried to stop and with the plane turning to the left; I slammed on the right brake and applied full right rudder. The plane was not responding to any braking or rudder control. When we went off into the grass we then shut off the engine. The plane ended up coming to a complete stop in the grass by itself. We notified ATC that we had an issue and needed assistance as we didn't feel comfortable moving the plane anywhere with a braking issue. We examined the plane and didn't notice any noticeable damage. A taxiway edge light was damaged. The plane was safely towed to the airport maintenance shop by airport management.

Second reporter narrative

Aircraft brakes ineffective during taxi to runway causing aircraft to veer off taxiway onto grass area. Aircraft shut down and a tow was summoned.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.