Casualties unknown

Single-Engine Missed Approach After Right Engine Power Loss (N6560C)

Sturgis, MI, US

On January 6, 2002, a Cessna 414A (registration N6560C) was involved in an aviation accident near Sturgis, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the inadequate in-flight emergency planning/decision, the checklist not followed and excessive approach altitude by the pilot. Contributing factors were the loose oil return line and weather. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot executed a single-engine missed approach after losing right engine power during climb. The propeller was feathered. Investigation revealed a disconnected oil return line and metallic debris in the engine.

Accident Overview

The pilot attempted a single-engine missed approach to the departure airport after losing right engine power during the departure climb phase. The pilot reported being high on the approach and feathered the propeller when executing the missed approach. Instrument meteorological conditions were present at the time.

Performance Data

Graphical performance data for the airplane shows a positive climb rate of approximately 340 feet per minute under field conditions, based on the airplane's checklist configuration for single-engine flight. The data also indicates a loss of single-engine climb performance of 400 feet per minute if the propeller is not feathered, and an additional loss of 200 feet per minute with a flap setting of 15 degrees.

Engine Examination

Examination of the right engine found that the oil return line from the turbocharger to the scavenge oil pump was disconnected. The connector threads showed no evidence of stripping. The engine’s oil pan was removed, revealing the presence of metallic debris.

Maintenance History

Logbook records indicate that the last maintenance performed on the engine was its installation, which occurred 31.7 hours before the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020109X00050. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.