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Engine Roughness Leads to Forced Landing in Mountainous Terrain (N75350)

Nederland, CO, US

On July 24, 1992, a Piper PA-28-200R (registration N75350) operated by Walker, Merle L. was involved in an aviation accident near Nederland, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A PARTIAL LOSS OF POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR WAS: NO SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR A FORCED LANDING. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a cross-country flight at 11,500 feet over mountainous terrain, an engine began running rough. The pilot reversed course and attempted a forced landing in a small valley. The engine smoothed out but the valley was too small for an exit. The pilot attempted to land on a road, but a wing tip caught and the airplane impacted trees. No mechanical failure was found.

Accident Details

While conducting a cross-country flight at 11,500 feet over mountainous terrain, the aircraft's engine began running rough. The pilot reversed course and prepared for a forced landing in a clearing located in a small valley.

Forced Landing Attempt

During the final portion of the approach, the engine smoothed out. However, the valley was too small for an exit to be accomplished. The pilot then attempted to land on a road, but a wing tip caught, causing the airplane to impact into trees.

Investigation

Examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical or system failure or malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Jul 1992 Piper PA-28-200R accident near Nederland, CO?

During a cross-country flight at 11,500 feet over mountainous terrain, an engine began running rough. The pilot reversed course and attempted a forced landing in a small valley. The engine smoothed out but the valley was too small for an exit. The pilot attempted to land on a road, but a wing tip caught and the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Jul 1992 involved a Piper PA-28-200R, registration N75350, operated by Walker, Merle L., at Nederland, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A PARTIAL LOSS OF POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR WAS: NO SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR A FORCED LANDING.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15135. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.