Primary finding
Probable cause
The loss of directional control due to a fractured tailwheel steering linkage assembly.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the flight instructor, during the approach to landing the student pilot correctly flared and maintained pitch attitude and airspeed as the airplane touched down. When the tailwheel contacted the runway, the airplane immediately yawed to the left uncontrollably. The airplane ground looped, and the main landing gear collapsed before coming to a stop. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and right wing. An examination of the tailwheel steering linkage assembly revealed the castellated nut fitting fractured.