Incident Overview
A private pilot, who was not instrument rated, was conducting a visual approach at night in visual meteorological conditions to a 3,721-foot-long asphalt runway. A flight instructor was handling radio communications. Both pilots reported that the private pilot was the pilot-in-command (PIC) of the flight; however, the flight instructor listed himself as PIC on an instrument flight rules flight plan filed for the flight.
Sequence of Events
The airplane was aligned with the runway and had received clearance to land when it struck trees during the final approach. The private pilot stabilized the aircraft and successfully landed on the runway. However, after touchdown, the nose gear collapsed, causing the airplane to veer off the runway onto a grass area.
Damage Assessment
Inspection revealed damage to the propeller, right aileron, left horizontal stabilizer, and both the left and right elevator.
Pilot Experience
The private pilot reported 200 hours of total flight experience, with 50 hours in the same make and model as the accident airplane. The flight instructor reported 2,400 hours of total flight experience, with 80 hours in the same make and model.