Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 N6075L accident near Chandler, Arizona

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.

NTSB analysis

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.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10CA282 for the full record.