NTSB Factual Report

On July 20, 2007, at 1100 central daylight time, a Cessna T188C, N2870J, was substantially damaged during the takeoff roll at Shalz Field Airport (CBK), Colby, Kansas. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The aerial application flight was being conducted under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 137 without a flight plan. The commercial pilot was not injured. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

According to the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report form submitted by the pilot, he was departing from runway 17 (5,109 feet by 75 feet, concrete) with a crosswind from the east. The pilot stated that during the departure roll, the airplane veered into the wind. He attempted to correct with rudder; however, the rudder correction was inadequate. The pilot stated that when he applied brakes, the brakes were unresponsive and the airplane ground looped. According to the pilot, he had not had any problems with the brakes prior to the takeoff roll. The right wing spar was bent up and forward and the right main landing gear separated. Winds at the time of the accident were recorded as 120 degrees at 8 knots.

According to the FAA inspector who examined the airplane, a piece of metal was found in the brake line. The brake line, brake caliper, and brake master cylinder were retained for further examination. An examination of the remaining airplane systems revealed no anomalies. According to the FAA, the source of the metal found in the brake line was determined to be the #3 AN fitting at the top of the brake hose. The AN fitting was cross threaded and the threads on the AN fitting were galled and several were missing. According to the FAA, this prevented a seal between the fitting and the hose, resulting in a brake fluid leak. Examination of the brake caliper and brake master cylinder revealed no anomalies.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the take-off roll resulting in a ground loop.