Accident Details
A flight instructor and a pilot under instruction were conducting a training flight that included airwork and landings on a grass field. The pilot under instruction occupied the rear seat, while the flight instructor was in the front seat. According to the pilot under instruction, the flight instructor was simultaneously on the flight controls because it was the student's first landing on a grass strip. However, the flight instructor stated that he had told the student "you have the controls" and received acknowledgement.
Sequence of Events
On the first touchdown on runway 28, the tailwheel-equipped airplane bounced and became airborne, then touched down a second time. After the second touchdown, the airplane began turning to the right. The flight instructor "got on the controls" and added left rudder, which was described as "ineffective." The airplane then ground-looped 90 degrees and struck a clump of spruce trees.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident examination revealed damage to both lower wings. Neither pilot reported any preexisting mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane. Winds were reported as coming from 200 degrees true at 7 knots.