Accident Overview
During a dark night cross-country flight in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), the airplane was cleared for a VOR approach to runway 30. Due to unfavorable winds, the pilot elected to circle to land on runway 12. While on a right downwind leg, visual contact with the runway was lost and not reestablished. The pilot continued the descent on the base leg and subsequently impacted the terrain in a slight right turn.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be the pilot's continued descent below the proper altitude. Contributing factors included the dark night, fog, and the crew's poor coordination.
Sequence of Events
- The flight was conducted at night under instrument meteorological conditions.
- A VOR approach to runway 30 was cleared, but the pilot opted to circle to land on runway 12 due to unfavorable winds.
- While on the right downwind leg, visual contact with the runway was lost.
- The pilot continued descending on the base leg without reestablishing visual contact.
- The airplane impacted terrain in a slight right turn.
Investigation Findings
No other contributing factors were identified beyond those listed. The report did not specify aircraft type, registration, number of occupants, injuries, or damage details.