Incident Summary
The pilot was cleared for a GPS approach but decided to perform a circling approach to a different runway after determining he was too high for a good landing. During the turn to base leg, the pilot lost visual contact with the ground and became disoriented.
Sequence of Events
On a dark night with no moon, the pilot entered a 70- to 80-degree left bank before realizing the extreme attitude. He returned the airplane to a level attitude and immediately saw the ground directly in front. The aircraft subsequently ran through a barbed wire fence, collided with trees, and slid rearward to a stop in a high-altitude meadow located east of the airport.
Investigation Findings
An evaluation of the circling approach procedures and night operations for that airport was completed by the FAA, and no problems were identified with the procedures or operations.
Probable Cause
The failure of the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft due to spatial disorientation. A factor was the dark night.