Event Details
Approximately 22 miles from the destination airport, the pilot reported that the airplane's electrical system became inoperative, causing a total loss of electrical power. The pilot was unable to activate the runway lights because the radios were inoperative, preventing activation of the runway lighting system.
The pilot stated he found the airport but could not see the runway. He decided to land without any lights. He attempted to adjust the flaps, but they were electric and did not respond. Just before touchdown, he could see the white strips on the runway to his left. The airplane touched down with the right landing gear off the runway on the grass. He applied power to initiate a go-around.
Pilot's Account
On the second landing approach, the pilot saw the white strips and was "right on them." He flared, but the airplane bounced and floated. When it touched down again, the pilot said "the plane felt as if it was skidding sideways," prompting another go-around.
The pilot recounted: "I guess I must have become somewhat disoriented, as I banked left much too soon thinking I remembered trees at the end of the runway. At that moment I saw the outlines of tree tops in front of me. I tried to pick the lowest point, but struck one. The plane began to tumble, and then I was on the ground hanging upside down from the seat belt."
Post-Accident Tests
A test run on the engine revealed no discrepancies. The alternator and voltage regulator were bench tested and found to have no defects.