Flight and Weather Conditions
The pilot obtained weather information and filed an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan before departure. As the aircraft neared its destination, which was surrounded by high terrain, scattered clouds below became broken. The sun was setting, and the pilot saw a break in the clouds. Not comfortable with what he observed, he requested the GPS-A approach and maneuvered to intercept the inbound course at the initial approach fix (IAF).
ATC Communication and Visual Maneuvering
Before reaching the IAF, the pilot saw a clear visual path to the destination. The air traffic controller, waiting for cancellation from another aircraft, advised the pilot to expect a hold. The pilot stated visual meteorological conditions (VMC) existed and that he would continue visually. He then turned, descended, and crossed the final approach course inside the final approach fix (FAF). After receiving the other cancellation, the controller cleared the pilot for the approach. The pilot acknowledged and continued descending. The controller then asked him to cancel his IFR clearance either with him or on the ground. The pilot replied that he was VFR and would cancel IFR.
Attempted Visual Landing
The pilot had the town in sight and estimated a 2,000-foot ceiling. It was significantly darker below the cloud layer. He switched to the Unicom frequency, keyed the microphone five times to activate the runway lights, but did not see them. He tried twice more without result. He attempted to dim the screen on his flight display because the electronic approach chart image was creating glare on his windshield. While deciding whether to climb into the overcast, circle the airport, or try the lights again, he believed his last heading would keep him over lower terrain. However, the airplane drifted right of course. A passenger then observed trees. The pilot saw them and pulled up, but the airplane struck trees and terrain, sustaining substantial damage.
Radar and Post-Accident Findings
Radar data revealed that the pilot never became established on the approach, was never in a position to land, and never got closer than one mile northeast of the airport before flying into rising terrain. No anomalies with airport lighting were discovered. Examination of the approach procedure revealed that the GPS-A approach was not authorized for use at night. At the time, visibility was below VFR minimums at 2.5 miles in light snow and mist, and an overcast ceiling of 1,400 feet existed, which was below the published minimum descent altitude.