Night Visual Approach Accident Involves Black Hole Illusion (N2380U)

Accident Overview and Approach Profile The aircraft was on a visual approach to the runway 38 minutes after official sunset, with no moon present. The approach was made over rural, heavily wooded terrain that produced low levels of ambient light. Radar data indicated the airplane approached the airport at 120 knots groundspeed while descending at 1,200 feet per minute. The aircraft struck trees and crashed less than 1/2 mile from the approach end of the runway. ## Wreckage Examination and Pilot Experience Examination of the wreckage revealed that the instrument lighting rheostat was in the full bright position and that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane. The pilot had recorded two takeoffs and landings at night about 1 year prior to the accident. Before those flights, the pilot had not flown at night for 7 years. ## Environmental Conditions and Contributing Factors Examination of the environmental conditions at the time of the accident revealed that they were conducive to a “black hole approach,” a night visual illusion that results in low approaches and landings prior to the runway.