Primary finding
Probable cause
The flight instructor’s failure to maintain directional control during landing in the tailwheel equipped airplane.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The flight instructor reported that the purpose of the flight was to familiarize the new owner with the airplane and that he was the sole manipulator of the tailwheel airplane’s flight controls. He said that he made a stabilized approach to a wheel landing and as the tailwheel came down, the airplane veered to the left and became uncontrollable. The airplane exited the runway and the right wing dipped and contacted the ground. The airplane received substantial damage to the right wing and right elevator. The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.