Student Pilot's Crosswind Landing Results in Runway Excursion and Ground Loop

Incident Overview

A student pilot was conducting a crosswind landing. According to the pilot's report, moments before the airplane's nose wheel touched down, the right wing rose and the airplane began to veer to the left. The airplane subsequently exited the runway to the left, collided with a runway sign, and performed a ground loop.

Aircraft Damage

Following the incident, an examination of the airplane revealed structural damage to the left main landing gear strut and the horizontal stabilizer.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.