NTSB Factual Report

On October 25, 2007, about 2015 Pacific daylight time, a Piper PA-28-140, N6791J, collided with obstacles short of the runway during a night approach into Fresno Chandler Executive Airport, Fresno, California. The pilot/owner was operating the airplane under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91. The private pilot and one passenger sustained serious injuries while the other passenger sustained minor injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The local flight departed Reedley Municipal Airport, Reedley, California, at an unknown time, with a planned destination of Fresno. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed for the personal flight.

During a telephone interview with the National Transportation Safety Board investigator, the pilot stated he flew the traffic pattern at a higher altitude then normal because the flight was being conducted after sunset. He completed his before landing checklist and turned to the base leg. He lowered the flaps but noted he did not use full flaps for the landing. Approximately 1/4 mile from the runway, the airplane collided with trees and a pole, and then impacted the ground. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine. As of November 26, 2007, the Safety Board has not received the pilot's completed "Aircraft Accident Report," NTSB Form 6120.1.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain the proper glide path to clear objects during approach for landing.