What happened
During a 14 CFR Part 135 on-demand sightseeing flight, the pilot in command reported that the aircraft veered sharply to the left shortly after the main landing gear tires made contact with the runway surface. In an attempt to maintain directional control, the pilot applied heavy braking to the right wheel and depressed the right rudder pedal; however, these actions had no noticeable effect on the airplane's path.
The pilot initially suspected that the loss of control might have been caused by the passenger in the right front seat unintentionally depressing the left rudder pedal. The passenger denied that any such action occurred.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft was conducted by the operator. This examination of the airplane's flight and ground control directional systems revealed no difficulties or mechanical failures.