NTSB Factual Report

On July 26, 2005, about 0821 Pacific daylight time, the pilot flying a Stinson 108, N97492, veered off runway 21, nosed over, and was substantially damaged during landing rollout at the Hesperia Airport, Hesperia, California. The private pilot, who owned and operated the airplane, sustained a minor injury. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The personal flight was performed under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91, and the flight originated from Apple Valley, California, about 0800.

The pilot reported to the National Transportation Safety Board investigator that he slipped the airplane while approaching the airport, and the airplane's touchdown on the runway was normal. During the landing rollout, the right main landing gear tire became flat, and he was unable to keep the airplane on the runway. The conventional gear airplane swerved sideways, and he lost control. At the time of the mishap, the wind was light and variable.

The pilot also reported that his total pilot-in-command flying experience in the model of airplane was 8.3 hours, and the total time on the right tire was 8.3 hours. No physical evidence of preimpact tire failure was reported.

NTSB Probable Cause

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout.