Incident Overview
During a precautionary landing, an airplane ran off the end of the runway, crossed a ditch, and nosed over in a corn field. The pilot reported that he had diverted to the airport due to deteriorating weather conditions.
Pilot Actions
Upon arrival at his selected alternate airport, the pilot found that the runway lights were not on. He attempted to activate them using the aircraft radio but was unsuccessful. He then used his cellular phone to call 911 and requested that the lights be turned on. The pilot stated that he circled the airport for approximately 30 minutes before a highway patrol car arrived.
Weather Conditions
While waiting for the lights to be activated, the pilot continued to circle the airport. He reported that the ceiling had deteriorated to about 400 feet above ground level (AGL) by the time he decided to attempt a landing on the unlighted runway.
Runway Lighting Issue
The pilot said that he landed long and subsequently decided to abort the landing. No notices to airmen (NOTAMs) had been issued regarding the runway lights at the accident airport prior to the incident.
Outcome
After aborting the landing, the airplane nosed over in a plowed field. The pilot reported no mechanical difficulties in his written report.