Incident Summary
A pilot reported that during a night flight, he made an initial pass to locate the airfield and activate the runway lights via radio. The first approach was aborted when he lost visual contact with the landing area. After regaining sight of the field, he initiated a second approach.
Approach and Impact
On the second approach, the pilot observed the runway lights from the approach end to the departure end, as well as a windsock to the left of the runway. He recalled feeling slightly low during the approach. On what he believed was short final, trees suddenly appeared in front of the windscreen. Limbs and branches struck the airplane, causing severe vibration and shimmying. In response, the pilot reduced power and pushed the yoke forward to force the airplane onto the ground. The airplane subsequently collided with the ground, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.
Aircraft Damage
The airframe sustained substantial damage in the collision. No other damage details were provided.
Pilot Statement
The pilot's account was the source of all incident details. No other witnesses or recordings were mentioned.