Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control and the flight instructor's inadequate remedial action during the landing roll, which resulted in a ground loop.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
After performing air work, the certificated flight instructor (CFI) and airline transport pilot (ATP) returned back to the airport where the ATP would conduct touch-and-go practice takeoffs and landings in the tailwheel-equipped airplane. The first three landings were uneventful and they had planned for the fourth to be a full stop with the airplane configured for a three-point landing. Following a normal approach and touchdown, the airplane was on the landing roll when it suddenly turned to the left 30 degrees relative to the runway centerline. Both pilots applied full right rudder, but the airplane continued the left turn and exited the runway surface. The airplane ground looped, coming to rest facing approximately 270 degrees from the runway centerline. The pilots both reported that there were no pre impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine.
Source record
Factual narrative
In a written statement, the certificated flight instructor (CFI) reported that the purpose of the flight was for him to conduct an aerobatic lesson with the airline transport pilot (ATP) in a tail wheel-equipped airplane. After performing air work, the pilots returned back to the airport and the ATP decided to try touch-and-go practice takeoffs and landings. The first three landings were uneventful and he had planned for the fourth to be a full stop with the airplane configured for a three-point landing. Following a normal approach and touchdown, the airplane was on the landing roll when it suddenly turned to the left 30 degrees relative to the runway centerline. Both pilots applied full right rudder, but the airplane continued the left turn. The CFI attempted to apply light right brake pressure but the airplane exited the left side of the runway and ground looped. The airplane came to a rest facing approximately 270 degrees from the runway centerline; during the accident sequence, damage was incurred to the right wing tip and left aileron. The pilots both reported that there were no pre impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine.