Incident Overview
A pilot operating a Cessna 152 was conducting touch and go landings within the airport traffic pattern during nighttime conditions. The sequence of events led to the aircraft striking tree tops and subsequently landing with excessive force, causing damage to multiple components.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot's account, after completing several touch and go landings, while flying the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, a small rain cloud was observed over the airport. In response, the pilot "hurried" the approach by turning early onto the left base leg. During this expedited maneuver, the aircraft struck several tree tops, resulting in damage to the wings. The pilot then continued onto the final leg of the approach before executing a hard landing, which caused damage to the nose landing gear.
Aircraft Damage
The collision with tree tops inflicted damage to the wings. The subsequent hard landing resulted in damage to the nose landing gear. No other damage was reported.
Circumstances
The pilot was the sole occupant. The aircraft was being operated under visual flight rules at night. Weather conditions included the presence of a small rain cloud in the vicinity of the airport.