Boeing A75N1 N65648 accident near Bealeton, Virginia

Probable cause

The pilot under instruction’s improper recovery from a bounced landing and the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action, which resulted in a ground loop and collision with trees.

NTSB analysis

According to the certificated flight instructor (CFI), the purpose of the flight was for the pilot under instruction (PUI) to conduct airwork and grass field landings. The PUI was seated in the rear seat and the CFI was seated in the front seat. The PUI stated that the CFI was on the flight controls in conjunction with him since it was going to be his first landing on a grass strip. The CFI stated that he advised the PUI that the PUI had authority over the flight controls to which he received an acknowledgement. On the first touchdown, the tailwheel-equipped airplane bounced and became airborne, then touched down a second time. After the second touchdown, when the airplane began turning to the right, the flight instructor took over authority of the flight controls and applied left rudder, which was ineffective. The airplane then ground-looped 90 degrees and struck a cluster of trees. Post-accident examination revealed that the airplane incurred damage to both lower wings. Both pilots reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10CA500 for the full record.