Incident Overview
Aircraft N97638, on a personal VFR flight, collided with terrain while maneuvering northeast of Auburn Airport. The pilot contacted Sacramento TRACON and reported having Auburn Airport in sight. However, TRACON observed the aircraft fly over and pass the airport in a northerly direction and called the aircraft. At that time, the pilot requested a vector to Lincoln Airport, located 16 miles west of Auburn.
ATC Communications
Sacramento TRACON instructed N97638 to maintain VFR and advised that the aircraft was entering an area of high terrain. The controller further advised the pilot, when possible, to turn right or left to a heading of 240 degrees for a vector to Lincoln Airport. The pilot acknowledged these instructions, but shortly afterward the aircraft disappeared from radar.
Weather Conditions
Residents in the accident area reported that ground visibility was "zero zero with fog and misty conditions."
Pre-Flight Advisory
Prior to departure, the pilot was advised by the Flight Service Station that "VFR flight was not recommended."
Outcome
The aircraft collided with terrain. The investigation did not specify a probable cause.