What happened
During an introductory tailwheel instructional flight, a student pilot was performing various maneuvers under the direction of a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). The flight included an approach to runway 27 at SAR airport. During the final approach, the instructor took full control of the Cessna (type not specified) to demonstrate a three-point landing.
While on the runway, the aircraft began an uncontrollable right turn. The instructor applied full opposite control in an attempt to correct the deviation but was unable to recover the heading. In an effort to avoid further excursion, the instructor attempted to initiate a go-around; however, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient flying speed. Consequently, the aircraft encountered a drainage ditch adjacent to the runway. The impact with the ditch resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.
Findings
- The pilot was unable to maintain directional control on the runway.
- The attempt to execute a go-around failed due to an inability to regain flying speed before encountering the obstacle.