Overview
A pilot conducting a visual flight rules cross-country flight elected to make an unscheduled landing to obtain updated weather information. After landing, the pilot chose to depart from runway 36, a 3,500-foot-long, unlighted, asphalt runway. The dark night conditions prompted the pilot to use "glow sticks" to illuminate points around the runway.
Flight Details
The pilot reported that the takeoff and initial climb were normal, but he did not have any further recollection of the flight. The airplane subsequently impacted trees along rising terrain northwest of the airport, substantially damaging the airplane.
Witness and Examination
A witness who heard the airplane depart stated that the engine noise was "loud" with no fluctuations. An examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector did not reveal any preimpact malfunctions.
Pilot Information
The pilot received his private pilot certificate about 3 months prior to the accident and reported about 120 hours of total flight experience.