What happened
While operating under instrument meteorological conditions during a night cross-country flight, the aircraft was initially cleared to perform a VOR approach toward runway 30. Because of adverse wind conditions, the pilot decided to change the approach pattern to circle and land on runway 12 instead.
During the execution of a right downwind leg, the pilot lost visual contact with the runway environment and was unable to regain it. The descent continued through the base leg, during which the aircraft entered a slight right turn and subsequently struck the ground.
Findings
- The flight was conducted at night in IMC.
- Loss of visual reference to the runway during the circling maneuver led to the accident.
- The impact occurred during the descent phase while the aircraft was maneuvering toward the runway.