Bonanza 36
Flight Crew Private; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 43; Flight Crew Total 2321; Flight Crew Type 1760
Situational Awareness; Communication Breakdown; Confusion
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Returned To Clearance; Flight Crew Became Reoriented; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Procedure; Airspace Structure; Company Policy; Human Factors; Weather
I departed in IMC on a TEC (Tower Enroute Control) IFR Route. I climbed out through marine layer into clear skies. Got ATIS enroute and it said ILS in use. I reported receipt of the ATIS to TRACON. TRACON said Information Delta now was current so I obtained Delta and notified TRACON. I received a 'vector to final approach course' which I assumed was for the in-use approach; i.e. the ILS. I do not recall ATC using 'VOR Alpha' approach terminology. TRACON switched me to Tower who said airport was IMC and not available for VFR traffic. I responded I was IFR and just had the handoff from TRACON. Tower sent me back to TRACON who had me turn right immediately as a 737 was climbing out. It was in sight in clear visibility and no factor to me; but may have compromised IFR separation requirements. I estimate separation was about 3 miles. After the turn I explained to TRACON I had been expecting vectors to the ILS and he said I had accepted the clearance to the VOR-A in my readback. I do not recall doing this; but do not deny that it could have happened. I immediately apologized; however; in case that indeed did happen. TRACON vectored me to the ILS approach course and asked me to call a phone number once on the ground; which I did immediately after I had shut down the engine. The controller who answered the phone was extremely polite and said they were just reviewing the situation. In retrospect I should have queried TRACON when vectors for the ILS approach didn't look right and he transferred me to Tower 'prematurely'. I was surprised; however; that Tower apparently were not expecting me on any IFR approach; even though I was on an IFR Clearance flying a TEC route to their airport.
BE36 pilot reported not receiving the correct approach clearance from the TRACON.