The flight instructor reported that, with the pilot receiving instruction on the controls, they were instructed by ground personnel to "do a 180º turn and park." During the right turn, after clearing a vehicle, the left wing struck a tree. Prior to impact, the flight instructor saw the tree and tried to apply brakes.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.