Please allow me to help CM out here.
A loop is conducted entirely wings level - from initial pull-up, through the vertical, the inverted and the pull-out, which means you start and finish on the same heading (or as close to it as most of us can manage). It is the most basic of aerobatic manoeuvres, which is why it is normally the first aerobatic taught to students.
A manoeuvre where you pull to the vertical, roll through 90 degrees and then complete a 3/4 loop to exit at 90 degrees from entry is called a quarter clover. It is very useful for positioning during displays.
It appears that the intended manoeuvre on this occasion was a quarter clover, or a modified version of same as the heading change was less than 90 degrees. However, only one person knows exactly what the intended manoeuvre was, and he is currently unable to tell us because he is still in an induced coma.
I hope this helps your understanding.
Regardless of this accident can you also explain the potential errors and their consequences in this type of manoeuvre? Just for the clarity of those reading the board.
Don't know anybody who hasn't bust base ht when it's been 5000 ft by thinking "never mind that was nearly gate ht" but not when doing LL aeros, its an automatic roll off the top and foxtrot Oscar.
You might think that.... but history proves that not to be the case. Hawk Trainer accident with company test pilot is at least one display accident that fits the same story.