Incident Overview
A private pilot was conducting visual approaches and landings on a dark night with one non-rated passenger. During the fourth or fifth traffic pattern, the aircraft was taking off following a full-flap touch-and-go when it struck a fence and impacted in a field beyond the departure end of the runway.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that he touched down approximately one-third down the 4,100-foot runway and the landing roll was longer than usual. Despite this, he elected to continue with another approach. During the climb-out, he observed orange marker balls on power lines off the departure end of the runway. Realizing he could not clear the wires, he attempted to dive under them, but the aircraft struck the fence. The pilot stated that the aircraft was operating normally, with no engine or flight control malfunctions.
Aircraft Examination
Post-accident examination revealed that the right wing spar was bent upward. No further structural damage was noted in the report.
Pilot Currency and Regulatory Aspects
According to the Pilot/Operator Accident/Incident Report, the pilot's last flight review occurred on April 1, 2006. Federal regulations under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 61.56 require a flight review every 24 months to act as pilot in command. Additionally, Federal Aviation Administration officials noted that the pilot did not meet the currency requirements for carrying passengers as specified in Parts 61.57(a)1 and 61.57(b)1.