Incident Overview
After departing Santa Monica at night, the pilot of a Mitsubishi MU-2 contacted TRACON for clearance through the TCA at 6,500 feet. TRACON attempted an automated VFR handoff to ARTCC but was unable to complete it. Radar service was terminated, and the pilot, whose aircraft was not radar-equipped, contacted Santa Barbara Flight Service Station (FSS), his home airport.
Weather and Approach Information
The pilot was advised that weather conditions at Santa Barbara were 500 feet scattered, 2,700 feet broken, 4,000 feet overcast, with visibility 6 miles and fog. The MU-2 pilot had not filed a flight plan and began a VOR runway 25 approach without obtaining clearance.
Sequence of Events
As the MU-2 continued inbound, it descended through clouds and converged with a Fairchild SA227 that was on an IFR approach to the same airport. The ARTCC controller, who had been controlling the SA227, advised the FSS specialist of the situation. Both aircraft pilots were informed of each other's position. The MU-2 pilot did not respond when asked if he was in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). He reported being 7 or 8 miles out on the VOR approach and was again told of the SA227 on final approach and instructed to phone ARTCC after landing. No further radio calls were received from the MU-2 pilot.
Radar Data and Maneuver
Radar data showed that the MU-2 converged within 400 feet of the SA227. The MU-2 pilot began a left turn over the shoreline, as if to circle for spacing, but then entered a descent and crashed into the ocean.
Post-Impact Examination
Examination of light bulbs from the MU-2 indicated that the master caution and battery over-temperature lights were illuminated during the impact.