Event Description
A certified flight instructor (CFI) reported that while performing a steep right turn, he heard a thump that appeared to originate from the tail section of the airplane. He subsequently leveled the wings and realized he was applying approximately three-fourths of the right rudder pedal travel. The CFI flew the airplane back to the airport, which was 10 miles away. During the final approach, he flew the tailwheel-equipped airplane to an altitude of 6 to 12 inches above the runway and allowed the airspeed to decrease before touchdown. According to the CFI, he ran out of available right rudder just as all three wheels made contact with the runway.
Inspection Findings
An inspection of the airplane revealed that a large section of the left wing's fabric had separated from the structure. As a result, nine wing ribs, along with the main and rear spars, were visible from wing station 58 to wing station 176. The missing fabric left the underlying framework exposed over that span.
Maintenance History
A review of the airplane's maintenance records indicated that the left wing had undergone repair on October 16, 2000. The repair involved the application of a fabric patch to the wing's covering.