Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control due to the partial failure of the left brake.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The airplane was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain following a landing attempt on a 3,594-foot long by 46-foot wide asphalt runway. The pilot stated that as he was rolling out, he applied [both] brakes and that the right brake "grabbed" and the left brake did not. The airplane veered to the right and off the runway into a muddy area. The airplane's nose subsequently dug in and the airplane nosed over, and came to rest inverted. The Federal Aviation Administration inspector, who examined the airplane after the accident, reported that the left brake was "spongy."
Source record
Factual narrative
The airplane was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain following a landing attempt on a 3,594 feet long by 46 feet wide asphalt runway. The pilot stated as he was rolling out, he applied [both] brakes and that the right brake "grabbed" and the left brake did not. The airplane veered to the right and off the runway into a muddy area. The airplane's nose subsequently dug in and the airplane nosed over, and came to rest inverted. The Federal Aviation Administration inspector, who examined the airplane after the accident, reported that the left brake was "spongy."