Background
During a weather briefing, the pilot was advised that visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended. While en route to Columbia, the pilot contacted air traffic control (ATC) requesting weather information. The controller observed the airplane entering positive control airspace and instructed the pilot to remain below 18,000 feet. The pilot responded that it was necessary to climb above flight level (FL) 180 to remain VFR. The controller advised the pilot to contact Edwards RAPCON if he requested any IFR assistance.
Flight Progress
The airplane's Mode C transponder was tracked for over an hour, indicating altitudes varying between FL 196 and 14,300 feet. No further communications were received from the pilot after the initial exchange. Radar contact with the aircraft was lost at 1709, approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes after initial contact.
Search and Recovery
The aircraft was located seven months later in a mountainous area at an elevation of 11,300 feet mean sea level (MSL). The airplane was not equipped with supplemental oxygen.
Weather Conditions
Forecasted weather for the area indicated moderate to heavy rain, with a winter storm warning for higher elevations. Possible snow accumulations of 2 to 3 feet were expected, with winds gusting up to 50 miles per hour at higher elevations.