Event Description
A pilot was practicing landings on runway 28. After sunset, with residual light to the west, the pilot took off and completed a circuit at low altitude, barely clearing trees and wires on final approach. After taxiing back, the cockpit instrument lights were observed to be on. The pilot took off again, flew another low-altitude circuit, and impacted trees while turning onto the final approach leg.
Witness Observations
One resident heard engine "backfires," while others thought the engine "just didn't sound right" and had an "odd noise," but did not hear any backfires. Two airline transport pilots watching from the airport ramp noted no engine problems. The runway had a precision approach path indicator (PAPI), described by one pilot as "brilliant red."
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed no airframe or engine anomalies. The pilot had an eye examination about six months prior. On a questionnaire, he stated "yes" to bright lights bothering him and "yes" to having trouble with night vision.