Accident Overview
A twin-engine airplane was substantially damaged during a landing attempt on runway 36. The aircraft departed the runway and its nose landing gear collapsed after encountering soft, muddy turf adjacent to the runway. The aircraft subsequently impacted a berm.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the flight was normal until short final, just prior to touchdown. He reported wind from 320 degrees at 6 knots. When he attempted to align the nose of the aircraft with the runway for touchdown, he had no right rudder control. The pilot observed that the right rudder pedal was fully deflected to the right and he was unable to move it back to the normal position with his foot.
After touchdown, the aircraft veered to the left. The pilot tried to correct to the right without success. He attempted differential power to maintain runway alignment but was unable. He reduced power to idle and maneuvered as best he could while having no right rudder control. Once the aircraft came to a complete stop, it was shut down.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident inspection confirmed rudder control continuity and brake system integrity. Full rudder travel without restriction or binding was observed. Rudder pedal inputs produced proper, corresponding rudder movement. No anomalies with the nose wheel steering system that could be attributed to a pre-impact malfunction were observed. The brake system appeared intact and operated normally.
Conclusion
The aircraft departed the runway during landing, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot reported a loss of right rudder control prior to touchdown, but no mechanical cause was identified during post-accident inspection.