Overview
A CFI-rated pilot, occupying the left seat, was receiving a demonstration flight in a tailwheel-configured aircraft. The private pilot and owner of the aircraft was seated in the right seat. During the flight, approximately the fifth touch-and-go landing, the aircraft encountered gusting crosswinds.
Flight Details
On this particular approach, directional control was lost, leading to a ground loop. The ground loop resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft. Both pilots subsequently claimed that the other pilot was the pilot-in-command (PIC).
Pilot Qualifications
The pilot in the left seat did not hold an endorsement for tailwheel-equipped aircraft and lacked current flight currency in such aircraft. This limitation was noted in the accident investigation.
Aftermath
The investigation did not assign a specific probable cause for the loss of control. The event was characterized by the conflicting accounts of who was acting as PIC and the left-seat pilot's lack of tailwheel qualifications.