Overview
An aircraft struck trees and the ground while conducting a night cross-country flight in deteriorating weather conditions. The accident occurred approximately three-quarters of a mile south-southwest of the Keeler, Michigan, VOR navigational aid.
Witness Observations
Witnesses on the ground reported hearing the aircraft circling at low altitude but were unable to see it due to cloud cover, drizzle, and fog. The sound of the engine was continuous until witnesses heard the cracking of trees followed by an explosion.
Pilot Information
According to the pilot's logbook, he had no prior night flying experience or instrument flight time. The only instrument training recorded was 4.3 hours of simulated instrument flight (hood time), which was logged in November 1980.
Flight Details
The pilot received a weather briefing before departure but did not file a flight plan and made no radio calls during the en route portion of the flight.