Overview
A pilot flying to Santa Ynez Airport became disoriented after radar service was terminated, leading to loss of radio and radar contact and a subsequent crash approximately 8 miles south of the airport, near the coast. The aircraft impacted rolling terrain at an elevation of about 95 feet MSL. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found.
Flight and Communications
The pilot was advised that the destination airport (Santa Ynez) was directly ahead at 12 miles and requested a frequency change, after which radar service was terminated. About 9 minutes later, the pilot reestablished radio contact with the Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) and reported being unsure of his position. The controller informed the pilot that the aircraft was too low for radar and advised him to contact Santa Barbara Radar Approach Control (RAPCON) for assistance.
After contacting RAPCON, the pilot reported he was disoriented and unable to find the destination airport. The aircraft was radar identified, and the pilot confirmed a Mode C altitude of 1,300 feet. He was cautioned about the terrain elevation and given a heading to fly. The pilot stated he was familiar with the terrain. Shortly thereafter, radio and radar contact were lost.
Accident
Following the loss of contact, the aircraft entered a descent, crashed, and burned about 8 miles south of Santa Ynez, near the coast. Impact occurred on rolling terrain at an elevation of approximately 95 feet MSL. The terrain rose to approximately 4,000 feet between the crash site and the airport.
Toxicology
Toxicology checks of the pilot's spleen and liver fluids showed alcohol levels of 0.124% and 0.130%, respectively.