What happened
The pilot was conducting practice takeoffs and landings under the supervision of an on-duty air traffic controller. After completing several successful approaches and touchdowns, the pilot initiated another approach to runway 16R. During the landing phase, the aircraft reportedly pitched downward sharply. Following initial touchdown, the plane became airborne again, bouncing off the pavement. As it settled back down, the left wing tip struck the runway surface, causing the aircraft to ground loop.
The investigation
The air traffic controller observed the sequence of events leading up to the incident. The report notes that the pilot was actively practicing landing techniques during this period.
Findings
The primary factor in this event was the aircraft's inability to maintain directional control after bouncing upon touchdown. The downward pitch and subsequent re-entry into the air likely contributed to the loss of traction and control, resulting in the wing tip impact and ground loop.