Accident Details
A pilot, unable to start the engine of his scheduled courier aircraft, a Piper PA-32, consulted with company personnel and rented a Piper PA-28-151. After transferring the cargo, he departed from Monterey, California, bound for Oakland, California. The flight was not conducted under an FAA flight plan after leaving the Monterey Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA).
Approximately 30 minutes after takeoff, the aircraft crashed in mountainous terrain within the town of Los Gatos, California. Residents in the area reported that visibility was between 20 and 50 feet, and that the branches of tall trees could not be seen even with the aid of a flashlight.
Wreckage Examination
An examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact engine or airframe failures. The crash site was located within one mile of the course line between Monterey and Oakland airports.
Operational Context
The operator had not received approval to use this make and model of aircraft (Piper PA-28-151) in its scheduled air taxi operation.