Accident Summary
During a takeoff in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the pilot, who held an airline transport rating, lost control of the aircraft. The pilot was seated in the left seat, while the owner occupied the right seat of the dual-control airplane. The airplane lifted off in a 3-point attitude. After lowering the nose to gain airspeed, the wheels touched the runway, and the airplane abruptly veered to the left, resulting in a ground loop.
Previous Maneuvers
Prior to the accident flight, the pilot had executed four touch-and-go landings on runway 34. Additionally, two stop-and-go landings were performed on the same runway, with takeoffs initiated from abeam the 3,500-foot marker.
Witness and Weather Conditions
An eyewitness at the airport reported that the airplane appeared to have become airborne prematurely. At the time of the accident, the sky conditions were clear, and the wind was reported from 200 degrees at 3 knots.