The preliminary report from the NTSB on the Sherpa at Hamilton is posted on our DOCUMENTS page.
“After landing on runway 17, during the landing roll, the airplane began to veer right of centerline, and the PIC added left rudder correction. A vibration developed and increased as the airplane continued to veer to the right. Despite the PIC’s application of left brake and additional rudder inputs, the airplane continued to veer right, exited the runway, and struck a runway light, taxiway light, and taxiway sign. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the right stub wing bulkhead was substantially damaged. The airplane has been retained for further examination.”
Contrary to the earlier report, there were two pilots onboard, not one. The report doesn’t say whether the U.S. Forest Service was a party to the investigation along with the FAA (Helena office). The NTSB did not show up for the investigation.
The preliminary report also states that: “Prior to performing a simulated single engine approach to runway 17 at Ravalli County Airport (HRF), Hamilton, Montana, the pilot in command (PIC) noticed that the hydraulic reservoir display was “at the bottom limit in the yellow arc. All pre-landing checklist items were completed, including brake function checks ”
Brake function checks were completed, I assume with satisfactory results. An issue with the hydraulics, as indicated on the reservoir display? Touchdown on one engine and application of asymetric reverse thrust, resulting in a runway excursion?
Hmmmmm