N707AG

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-31-325S/N: 31-8012001

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, April 2, 2009
NTSB Number
ERA09CA227
Location
Newark, NJ
Event ID
20090403X81847
Coordinates
40.692501, -74.168609
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's decision to continue to operate the airplane with inoperative brakes on the airplane's right side.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N707AG
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
31-8012001
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1979
Model / ICAO
PA-31-325PA31
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Multi Engine
No. of Engines
2

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
EMERSUMS LLC
Address
3110 EDWARDS MILL RD STE 100
Status
Deregistered
City
RALEIGH
State / Zip Code
NC 27612-5419
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot aborted a previous takeoff because he was unable to maintain directional control of the airplane. He taxied the airplane to parking, inspected it visually, and elected to attempt another takeoff. During taxi, the control tower directed the pilot to complete a 180-degree turn. While turning, the pilot experienced a loss of brake pressure and directional control. He then applied asymmetrical engine power in an effort to complete the turn, but struck a fence post, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing. Inspection of the airplane by the Federal Aviation Administration revealed inoperative brakes on the airplane's right side.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA09CA227