Incident Overview
On a night flight from Santa Monica, the pilot of a Mitsubishi MU-2 contacted the terminal radar control (tracon) for clearance through the Terminal Control Area (TCA) at 6,500 feet. The tracon attempted to initiate an automated VFR handoff to the Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) but was unable. Radar service was terminated, and the pilot subsequently contacted Santa Barbara Flight Service Station (FSS), which was not equipped with radar. The FSS specialist advised the pilot of current weather conditions: scattered clouds at 500 feet, broken clouds at 2,700 feet, overcast at 4,000 feet, visibility 6 miles with fog.
Approach and Near Collision
The pilot had not filed a flight plan and began a VOR approach for runway 25 without obtaining clearance. As the MU-2 continued inbound, it descended through clouds and converged with a Fairchild SA227 that was conducting an IFR approach to the same airport. An ARTCC controller, who had been controlling the SA227, alerted the FSS specialist to the developing situation. Both aircraft pilots were advised of each other's positions. When asked if he was in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), the MU-2 pilot did not respond.
Final Communications and Descent
The MU-2 pilot reported being 7 or 8 miles out on the VOR approach. He was again informed of the SA227 on final approach and asked to contact ARTCC after landing. No further radio calls were received from the MU-2 pilot. Radar data indicated the MU-2 converged to within 400 feet of the SA227. The MU-2 pilot began a left turn over the shoreline, apparently to circle for spacing, but the aircraft entered a descent and subsequently crashed into the ocean. Examination of light bulbs in the wreckage showed that the master caution and battery over temperature warning lights were illuminated at impact.
Occupants and Findings
All four occupants of the MU-2 were killed in the crash.