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Engine Failure Leads to Forced Landing and Collision with Irrigation System (N95285)

Redmond, WA, US

On August 13, 1994, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N95285) operated by Coon, Gerald A. was involved in an aviation accident near Redmond, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the number three cylinder exhaust valve, which resulted in a loss of engine power. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

During cruise flight, an aircraft experienced engine vibration and power loss. The pilot executed a forced landing on wet grass, where the plane struck an irrigation system after the number three cylinder exhaust valve failed.

What happened

While operating in cruise flight, the pilot reported that the engine began to vibrate significantly and subsequently lost power. In response to this mechanical failure, the pilot initiated a forced landing procedure directed toward an open field nearby.

During the landing roll on wet grass, the airplane collided with an irrigation system located within the field. The impact occurred as the aircraft was decelerating after touchdown.

The investigation

A post-accident examination of the engine revealed that the number three cylinder exhaust valve had failed. This mechanical failure is consistent with the reported vibration and loss of power experienced during flight.

Probable cause

The failure of the number three cylinder exhaust valve, which resulted in a loss of engine power.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Aug 1994 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Redmond, WA?

During cruise flight, an aircraft experienced engine vibration and power loss. The pilot executed a forced landing on wet grass, where the plane struck an irrigation system after the number three cylinder exhaust valve failed.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Aug 1994 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N95285, operated by Coon, Gerald A., at Redmond, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the number three cylinder exhaust valve, which resulted in a loss of engine power.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02139. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.