Moser Engine Service

Before departing, the pilot obtained a weather briefing and was advised of a sigmet which forecasted severe turbulence below 18,000 feet, strong up/downdrafts, strong surface winds and wind shear near mountains and in passes. He took off with full fuel tanks and approximately 400 lbs of cargo on board. ARTCC reported that the en route portion of the flight was handled routinely. During arrival, the pilot contacted the airport unicom for a landing advisory. A King Air pilot was arriving at about the same time and asked the Aerostar pilot if he was making a full stop. The Aerostar pilot replied that he was. The King Air pilot lost sight of the Aerostar and began a 360° turn. He asked the Aerostar pilot to advise of his position, and shortly thereafter, the Aerostar pilot transmitted three mayday calls. Reportedly, the aircraft nosed up and went into a steep right bank just before impact. No preimpact mechanical failure/malfunction was found. There was evidence that most of the cargo was in the baggage compartment (limited to 240 lbs) and could have moved the CofG well beyond the aft limit. Elevator trim found full nose down. The pilot, sole on board, was killed.