Cessna Stationair/Turbo Stationair 6
Flight Crew Private
Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Inflight Event / Encounter Loss Of Aircraft Control
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem; Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action; General Maintenance Action
Human Factors; Procedure; Aircraft
Rudder felt normal when it was moved by hand. A flight control check [was performed] before the autopilot was engaged and after the autopilot was disengaged [and] checked good during the 'Before Takeoff Check' as well. The plane taxied normal with rudder controls to runway. Takeoff roll seemed normal; center line was maintained and there was no verbal cue to indicate an issue from the pilot flying. Upon rotation; the plane immediately yawed to the left. The [pilot] immediately gave controls to the [instructor] pilot. The [instructor] pilot received the flight controls with full right rudder already depressed and the plane was already veering off the left side of the runway with no ability to correct it. [Instructor] pilot continued the takeoff and began a climbing left turn to avoid obstacles. In the climb; the [instructor] pilot contacted Tower and told them 'Aircraft X has lost flight controls;' Tower confirmed what was said; [instructor] pilot advised that 'Aircraft X would need time [to] figure things out.' An emergency was never declared; but Tower gave priority. Tower suggested that once the plane was under control; RWY XXL was available. After two left circles; [instructor] pilot was able to regain some control and circle to RWY XXL to land. The plane was controllable with the rudders on the ground; and after inspection; it was found that the right rudder cable come in contact with the air conditioning system; arced/burnt; and broke.
C206 pilot reported a loss of control on takeoff due to failure of the rudder cable.