Incident Overview
A pilot experienced anomalies with the Instrument Landing System (ILS) during a series of approaches. According to the pilot's account, the first ILS approach was marked by fluctuations of the localizer needle to the left. In response, the pilot made corrective turns to the left. Upon breaking out of clouds at the decision height (DH), the pilot observed the runway to the right and initiated a missed approach. The pilot initially attributed the discrepancy to a cockpit distraction that occurred when the landing light was turned on.
Subsequent Approaches
During the second ILS approach, the pilot encountered similar but larger fluctuations. At the DH, both ILS localizer needles indicated the aircraft was right of course. The pilot sighted a row of lights to the left, believed to be the runway, and turned left and descended. It was subsequently realized that these lights were street lights, not runway lights. While climbing for another approach, the right wing struck a tree.
Third Approach
A third ILS approach was attempted, during which the same ILS problem was noted. Despite this, the pilot successfully landed the aircraft without further incident.
Investigation Findings
Following the incident, a check of the ILS transmitters and both receivers was conducted. No malfunctions or failures were found. The aircraft was equipped with an autopilot front/back switch, which was reportedly set to the "front" position.