Event Description
A commercial pilot, holding 4,940 hours of flight experience, was landing a twin-engine airplane on runway 16 at an airport. The runway was 3,500 feet long and 60 feet wide, constructed of asphalt. As the airplane crossed the threshold at approximately 100 knots, the pilot saw no obstructions on the runway. After touchdown, three deer were observed on the left side of the runway about 200 yards ahead. The pilot applied light right rudder to avoid contact, but the deer continued crossing from left to right directly in front of the airplane's rollout path. The pilot then applied heavy left rudder and brake along with light right brake to slow and pull the aircraft to the left. Subsequently, the airplane exited the left side of the runway and impacted trees in a small ravine located about 60 feet from the runway edge.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the deer had been hiding in 3-foot-tall grass along both sides of the runway. After the accident, the pilot exited the airplane and walked approximately one-quarter mile to the main ramp for assistance. Upon returning to the airplane, the pilot observed a small fire that gradually intensified and eventually consumed the airplane.
Airport Information
A review of published airport information revealed a remark stating that deer were on and in the vicinity of the airport. The pilot noted that the airport was not fenced.