Accident Overview
A pilot departed on a local flight shortly before the control tower closed. The pilot recalled that the final transmission from the tower included an altimeter setting that represented a significant change on his instrument.
Flight Details
Approximately 35 minutes after departure, the aircraft returned to the airport. Fog and haze had reduced visibility to about 2 miles. During the turn to final approach, the aircraft descended about 400 feet below the normal approach path.
Approach and Impact
Landing lights illuminated power lines ahead of the aircraft. The pilot considered an evasive pull-up maneuver but felt it would not provide sufficient clearance. Instead, the pilot added power and attempted to fly under the lines without a visual ground reference. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground in a corn field.