Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot experiencing spatial disorientation and the resultant excessive descent rate. Factors were: the dark night conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was cleared by artcc for a visual approach to runway 24. He advised unicom he was too high and would circle to land. An airport attendant saw the airplane's landing lights and watched it begin a left turn when it was over and halfway down the runway. The descent rate increased to a 'hard dive about 35 to 45 degrees' before disappearing into a ravine one mile south of the airport. Visual conditions prevailed but it was a dark night with no moon.
Source record
Factual narrative
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