As noted in another thread Kenz was a victim of a terrible accident. On Dec. 8, 2023 on departure from Runway 20 at Eloy, AZ as Kitfox plunged into an open field. An observer noticed a small object leaving the aircraft before the sudden descent. Preliminary examination has revealed that a blade separated from the adjustable propeller, causing extreme vibration, engine separation with complete loss of control. The aircraft subsequently crashed, and was consumed by fire.
The propeller installed was a ground adjustable NR unit from Ukraine installed on a 160hp Lycoming engine. The engine was probably at a high power setting in the climb out phase of flight. Due to this being an experimental aircraft further investigation might be limited. If I find any additional information on this accident We will pass it along.
We are mourning the loss of Ken at this time, and want to avert this happening again. Increased inspection of non certified hubs, bolts and blades are in order. Remove those spinners on adjustable propellers and take a closer look.