Maule M-5-210C N378X accident near Juneau, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the tailwheel-equipped airplane during landing, resulting in a ground loop. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor's failure to adequately monitor the landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot receiving instruction had recently returned to flying after a long absence, and he hired a flight instructor to assist him in becoming familiar and proficient with a recently purchased tailwheel-equipped airplane. Although not proficient, the pilot did possess a current tailwheel endorsement. During landing, the pilot said he overcorrected, and the airplane ground looped, sustaining substantial damage to the left aileron. The instructor said that he had been asked to substitute for the pilot's primary instructor and that he overestimated the pilot's ability and did not take control of the airplane. Neither pilot reported any preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC12CA098 for the full record.