Incident Overview
A pilot flying a cargo aircraft into an airport did not obtain a formal weather briefing but instead relied on information from another company pilot who had flown into the destination airport earlier that day. During the arrival, the pilot could see the rotating beacon and runway lights through some fog and elected to conduct a visual approach.
Approach
On final approach, at approximately 75 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot encountered thicker fog. Despite the reduced visibility, the runway lights remained in sight. The pilot continued the approach until he noticed that he was passing the operations building. At that point, he determined there was insufficient runway remaining to stop safely and initiated a go-around.
Go-Around and Collision
During the go-around, the aircraft was unable to clear trees located off the departure end of the runway. The aircraft collided with the trees. Following the collision, the pilot landed the aircraft in a field, where it skidded approximately 150 yards before coming to a stop.
Aftermath
Neither the pilot nor the cargo handler on board were injured. The aircraft sustained damage from the tree strike and subsequent landing in the field.