Primary finding
Probable cause
Exhaustion of the brake system hydraulic fluid due to an inadequate annual inspection.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot experienced failure of the right brake while taxiing for departure, lost control of the aircraft, and veered into a ditch. An A&P technician examined the aircraft brake system and found the right brake hydraulic cylinder empty. The mechanic then filled the right cylinder, checked the brake lines for fluid leaks, and functionally tested the brakes. No leaks were found and the brakes operated to specification. According to the technician, no evidence of old leaks was observed. Review of aircraft logbooks revealed that the annual inspection was completed on May 27, 1994, 23 hours prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 24, 1994, at 1030 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 210A, N6659X, veered into a ditch while taxiing for departure at Mesquite, Nevada. The aircraft was owned and operated by the pilot and was on a cross-country personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a VFR flight plan was filed. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. Neither the pilot nor the four passengers were injured. The flight was originating at the time with Rock Springs, Wyoming, as the destination. In his written statement, the pilot said he experienced failure of the right brake while taxiing for departure. The pilot lost control and the aircraft veered into a ditch. A certificated airframe and powerplant technician examined the aircraft brake system and found the right brake hydraulic cylinder empty. The mechanic then filled the right cylinder, checked the brake lines for fluid leaks, and functionally tested the brakes. No leaks were found and the brakes operated to specification. According to the technician, no evidence of old leaks were observed. Review of aircraft logbooks revealed that the annual inspection was completed on May 27, 1994, 23 hours prior to the accident. -