Accident Overview
A private pilot was conducting a local passenger flight under 14 CFR Part 91 as part of a wilderness lodge operation. The accident occurred during landing at an off-airport site.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, the takeoff and flight were uneventful. While on a left base-to-final turn, the left rudder became unresponsive. The pilot managed to level the wings with ailerons just before the airplane impacted the ground. The left wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage during the impact.
Post-Accident Findings
After the accident, the pilot and passenger noted that the left rudder cable retaining bolt was missing. The pilot reported that the rudder cable connection is routinely inspected prior to every flight, and no discrepancy was noted before the accident flight.