Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground loop, and the failure of both pilots to establish who was in control of the airplane.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, while practicing crosswind landings in a tailwheel-equipped airplane with a flight instructor, when the airplane touched down, directional control was lost and the airplane ground-looped striking the right wing on the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that he believed the flight instructor took control of the airplane during the landing. Conversely, the flight instructor reported that he believed the pilot was still in control of the airplane at the time of the accident.