Pilot Debrief

MCNULTY JOHN S AEROLITE 103 near Immokalee, FL — 2013-03-16

Final reportERA13LA171
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Date
2013-03-16
Location
Immokalee, FL, USA
Airport
IMM
Aircraft
MCNULTY JOHN S AEROLITE 103
Registration
N2549W
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Descent

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to the seizure of the magneto piston.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, he was descending the airplane from 3,000 to 1,000 ft above ground level toward his destination airport. After he leveled off the airplane, he encountered heavy turbulence and a strong wind gust. The airplane began to descend, and, in an attempt to climb, the pilot added power. However, the airplane did not climb, and a wind gust rolled the airplane right. He subsequently lost control of the airplane, and it collided with trees. Although the pilot did not report that the engine lost power, an examination of the engine revealed evidence of seizure marks on the intake and exhaust side of the magneto cylinder walls; the magneto piston's seizure likely led to the loss of engine power and contributed to the airplane's inability to climb.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have equipped the aircraft with a carburetor heat system to prevent icing.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 13 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents13

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