What happened
During a dual conversion training flight, a pilot with prior experience in tailwheel aircraft was operating a Vans RV-8, registration G-NRFK. The flight took place under favorable weather conditions, characterized by a light, variable wind of 3 to 5 knots.
According to the instructor, the approach was stable and the touchdown was gentle, meeting the expected standards for this aircraft type. However, as the aircraft slowed down on the runway, it began to drift toward the right. In an attempt to maintain the centerline, the pilot applied increasing left rudder. This correction caused the aircraft to yaw sharply to the left, resulting in a ground loop at an estimated speed of 30 knots. The aircraft eventually came to a halt on the runway.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events following the touchdown and the pilot's control inputs. The examination established that while the landing itself was performed correctly, the subsequent directional control was lost during the deceleration phase.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a loss of directional control during the landing roll.
- The pilot's attempt to correct a rightward deviation with increased left rudder input led to a sudden leftward yaw.
- The aircraft sustained damage specifically to the main wheel fairings, though no other structural damage was identified.