Incident Overview
A pilot operating in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) lost situational awareness and was unable to locate the intended airport. The pilot reported that due to lights on the ground, he believed he was over the peninsula, an area characterized by low terrain.
Sequence of Events
After descending to an altitude of 500 feet MSL, the pilot attempted a 180-degree turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck trees near Konocti Harbor. At that location, the mountain rises abruptly and steeply from the water. The pilot later stated that he was much closer to the mountain than he had thought.
Aircraft and Conditions
The aircraft collided with trees. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or occupants are available in the source. The time of day, weather specifics, and air traffic control involvement are not mentioned. Damage was sustained, but the extent is unspecified.
Pilot Account
The pilot attributed the confusion to ground lights that gave the false impression of being over the low-lying peninsula. The pilot's statement indicated a misjudgment of proximity to the rising terrain.