Incident Overview
A pilot experienced a loss of directional control while attempting to land, causing the airplane to veer off the runway and nose over. The incident occurred after a flight of approximately one hour.
Preflight Inspection and Takeoff
During the preflight inspection, the pilot discovered that the nose strut was completely flat. A mechanic subsequently inflated the strut with nitrogen gas and measured the chrome to ensure proper inflation. The pilot then took off without incident.
Landing and Loss of Control
During touchdown, the nose wheel made contact with the runway but did not respond to control inputs. The locked nose wheel began to drift to the left of the centerline. The pilot applied full right rudder to counteract the drift. When the airplane still did not respond, the pilot applied full brake pressure in an attempt to stop before departing the runway.
Runway Excursion and Nose-Over
The airplane continued off the runway and entered a soft, dirt field, causing the nose landing gear to sink into the ground. The airplane then nosed over and came to rest inverted.