AEROLITE 103 N2549W accident near Immokalee, Florida

Probable cause

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

NTSB analysis

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.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA13LA171 for the full record.