NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that the airplane was approaching the destination airport on a base leg of the traffic pattern in night visual conditions. At that time, the runway lights were set on high intensity, which diluted the threshold lights. Additionally, the red localizer antenna hazard lights were distracting. The pilot further stated that he was too low and struck trees during final approach; however, the airplane landed on the runway without further incident. The pilot added that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector stated that the airplane impacted trees with both wings about 2,400 feet prior to the runway threshold. The impact with trees resulted in damage to the left wing spar, lower fuselage, and the stabilator. The runway was 6,021 feet long and was equipped with a localizer approach, but was not equipped with an instrument landing system approach. The runway was also not equipped with a visual approach slope indicator. The red localizer antenna hazard lights were located about 750 feet prior to the runway threshold. Following the accident, the airport manager checked all runway lighting and found them to be operational.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain the proper glidepath during final approach in night visual meteorological conditions, which resulted in a collision with trees.