Accident Overview
On June 24, 2009, at approximately 1130 central daylight time, a Stinson 108-3 (registration N6939M) was substantially damaged when it nosed over during the landing roll at Llano Municipal Airport (AQO), Llano, Texas. The aircraft was registered to and operated by a student pilot conducting an instructional flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time.
Sequence of Events
The local flight originated from Llano at approximately 1120. The student pilot was soloing for the first time. During the third landing rollout, the airplane began to pull to the left. The pilot attempted to maintain directional control, but the left main landing gear separated, causing the airplane to nose over onto its back. The left main wheel and brake caliper were found several hundred feet behind the airplane along the rollout path.
Post-Accident Examination
A mechanic who inspected the airplane after the accident reported that the inner wheel half was broken around the brake disc mounting flange. The mechanic stated there was no bluing from excessive heat or any signs that the bearings had failed.
Pilot and Damage
The student pilot was not injured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.