Event Description
A flight departed after the pilot obtained a weather briefing for the return trip and informed the briefer of rain showers at the airport. The briefer advised that the showers would pass through in 30 to 45 minutes, after which the area would be clear. The pilot later called again, received another weather briefing, and filed a VFR flight plan. After departure, the pilot activated the flight plan. No further radio contact was made with the pilot.
Witnesses near the destination airport reported hearing an aircraft make two passes to the south-oriented runway in an attempt to land during dark night conditions. On the third approach, the aircraft stalled and crashed approximately one-quarter mile short of the runway.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage confirmed flight control continuity. No pre-impact failure or malfunction of the engine was identified.
Review of the pilot's logbook revealed a break in flying activity from July 24, 1989, to June 20, 1992. The last logged entry was a night flight on July 19, 1992. The previous night flight recorded was on July 8, 1989. In the preceding three years, only one night landing at the destination airport had been logged.
Weather and Approach
The pilot received weather briefings indicating rain showers at the airport, with a forecast of clearing after 30 to 45 minutes. The pilot attempted three approaches to land during the night, with witnesses observing the aircraft making two passes before the final approach that ended in a stall and impact short of the runway.