Accident Details
A non-instrument rated private pilot departed on runway 21 for a night visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country flight. After climbing to approximately 300 feet above ground level, the pilot initiated a turn to the northbound direction. The turn rate was calculated to be about 5 degrees per second, compared to a standard rate turn of 3 degrees per second. During the turn, the airplane's airspeed increased from 93 mph to 151 mph. The aircraft impacted the ground approximately 1 minute and 18 seconds after lift-off.
Environmental Conditions
The flight took place on a dark, moonless night, about 90 minutes before sunrise. To the south, west, and north of the airport, the area was minimally populated with very few ground lights, offering limited visual cues.
Impact and Wreckage
The airplane first struck the ground with its right wing tip, then cartwheeled. Debris from the aircraft was scattered over a distance of 537 feet.
Pilot Information
The pilot held a private pilot certificate but was not instrument rated. No weather or ATC involvement were noted in the source.