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
The flight instructor and airline transport pilot receiving instruction were performing takeoffs and landings in the tailwheel-equipped airplane. The first two landings were uneventful, and they had planned for the third to be a full stop with the airplane configured for a three-point landing. During the landing roll, the airplane began to veer left. The pilot applied full right rudder and brakes, but the airplane continued the left turn and exited the runway surface. The airplane ground looped, coming to rest facing approximately 90o from the runway centerline. The right wing was substantially damaged. The pilots both reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.