Incident Overview
A private pilot lost directional control of the airplane approximately 200 feet after a 'smooth landing' on runway 24. The pilot reported that the airplane pulled to the left abruptly and control became erratic. After the airplane left the runway, the pilot attempted to abort the landing by adding power. He stated that the airplane became airborne, but he was unable to establish a positive climb rate, so he elected to reduce the power and land. The airplane crossed the runway and came to rest north of the runway.
Examination Findings
Examination of the airplane revealed that the left main landing gear tire was blown at the side wall. The pilot stated that the blown tire precipitated the initial loss of control. The passenger concurred with the pilot stating that 'the landing was very smooth.'
Weather Conditions
The recorded winds at the airport, 8 minutes before the accident, were from 280 degrees at 8 knots. The pilot reported that the winds at the time of the accident were from 210 degrees at 8 gusting to 20 knots.