Probable cause
The total loss of engine power due to the failure of the ignition distributor rotor.
NTSB analysis
The pilot departed for a local flight and an alert notice (ALNOT) was issued when the pilot did not return. A search effort concluded four days later when the wreckage was found in a heavily wooded area about 4 miles from the departure airport. No ADS-B data associated with the airplane, or the accident flight was available. At the time of the on-scene examination, the transponder was observed in the OFF position.
Impact signatures on the propeller were consistent with the propeller not rotating at impact. Examination of the engine revealed that the ignition distributor rotor was fractured and disconnected from its driveshaft. This resulted in a total loss of engine power when the ignition system became inoperative due to the rotor failure. No other preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures were found with the airframe or engine.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23FA410 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 10, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Dowagiac, Michigan
- Nearest airport
- Dowagiac Municipal (C91)
- Highest injury
- Fatal
- Fatal injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built
- N-number
- N569SX
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2005
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.