What happened
During a night approach to runway 18, the pilot of a twin-engine airplane experienced spatial disorientation due to non-functioning runway lighting. While on short final, the pilot misidentified a row of lights as residential houses, leading to the mistaken belief that the aircraft was off-course. This confusion caused a delay in executing a go-around maneuver.
As the pilot attempted to apply power to abort the landing, the aircraft touched down in the turnaround area located to the right of the runway approach end. Upon this unintended touchdown, the aircraft rolled toward the left, causing the left propeller to strike the ground and sustain engine damage. In an effort to maintain directional control, the pilot reduced power to the right engine. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground to the left of the runway, coming to a stop in an area containing mesquite and small bushes. Although the pilot exited the cabin unassisted and sustained no injuries, a fire broke out following the impact and destroyed the aircraft.
Findings
- The pilot was unaware that several runway lights on the left side of the approach end were out of service during the night approach.
- Misidentification of runway lighting as residential lights led to a delayed decision to execute a go-around.
- The aircraft was operating in dark conditions with 3 miles of visibility at the time of the accident.