What happened
During a second attempted ILS approach, the pilot was unable to maintain visual contact with the runway. After continuing at decision height for several moments, the runway became visible; however, the pilot determined there was insufficient remaining runway length to complete a safe landing.
In an attempt to land, the pilot initiated a maneuver to circle at decision height and re-intercept the glideslope. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck one or more pine trees. Following the impact, the pilot declared an emergency and was vectored to an alternate airport located 24 minutes away.
The pilot reported that the aircraft exhibited flight characteristics similar to an engine failure in a multi-engine airplane during the flight to the alternate. Upon touchdown at the alternate airport, the aircraft departed the runway and came to rest in a median situated between a runway and a taxiway. There were no reported injuries.
Findings
The investigation noted that the pilot's attempt to circle at decision height led to the collision with trees.