Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Climb Leads to Forced Landing (N5310B)

Frederick, CO, US

On January 16, 1990, a Cessna 182 (registration N5310B) was involved in an aviation accident near Frederick, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stuck engine valves resulting in partial power loss during initial climb. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced partial power loss due to stuck engine valves during initial climb, resulting in a forced landing down an embankment and under power lines.

What happened

The pilot reported that the aircraft experienced an engine backfire and a subsequent loss of partial power during the initial climb phase. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot executed a forced landing in a soft field. During the descent, the aircraft slid underneath overhead power lines and traveled down an embankment before coming to rest in a nose-down position on a road.

The investigation

A post-accident inspection of the engine revealed that two or more valves were stuck. This mechanical fault prevented the engine from producing full power, confirming the pilot's report of partial power loss.

Probable cause

Stuck engine valves resulting in partial power loss during initial climb.

All Cessna 182 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jan 1990 Cessna 182 accident near Frederick, CO?

An aircraft experienced partial power loss due to stuck engine valves during initial climb, resulting in a forced landing down an embankment and under power lines.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jan 1990 involved a Cessna 182, registration N5310B, at Frederick, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Stuck engine valves resulting in partial power loss during initial climb.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22408. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.