Incident Overview
A pilot departing from Naval Air Station North Island encountered a mechanical issue while attempting to change radio frequencies. The megahertz tuning knob separated from its setting at 122.1 MHz, though the pilot could still adjust tenths of a megahertz. He contacted San Diego Flight Service Station (FSS) on that frequency to report the situation.
Sequence of Events
The pilot expressed concerns about violating the nearby Mexican border and controlled airspace, as well as heavy traffic from Navy jets at the NAS. He requested FSS assistance to obtain clearance to return to North Island for landing. While awaiting clearance, the pilot flew over the ocean. Upon receiving clearance, he turned the aircraft toward North Island and began prelanding checks. After rolling out of the turn with the landing gear extended and the landing light on, the pilot believed he was at approximately 1,000 feet above the surface. At that moment, the aircraft contacted the water. The occupants exited the aircraft before it sank and were rescued by a fishing boat several hours later.
Environmental Conditions
At the time, visibility was 2 miles southwest of North Island, with fog and haze present.