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Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss After Takeoff Leads to Forced Landing and Gear Collapse (N748)

Hillsboro, OR, US

On January 21, 1995, a Cessna A185E (registration N748) operated by Wittenberg, Dennis E. was involved in an aviation accident near Hillsboro, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. 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

Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot could not regain full power and executed a forced landing to an open soft field. During the landing roll, the airplane hit soft terrain and the landing gear collapsed. No evidence of mechanical failure found; pilot suspected fuel contamination but unsubstantiated.

Accident Summary

Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot was unable to regain full power and elected to execute a forced landing to an open soft field. During the landing roll, the airplane collided with soft terrain and the landing gear collapsed.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that the engine lost power shortly after takeoff. Despite attempts, full power could not be regained, prompting the decision to perform a forced landing. The pilot stated that he suspected fuel contamination as a possible cause.

Investigation Findings

Investigators found no evidence to indicate a mechanical failure or malfunction. The pilot's claim of fuel contamination was examined, but no evidence was found to substantiate this claim.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jan 1995 Cessna A185E accident near Hillsboro, OR?

Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot could not regain full power and executed a forced landing to an open soft field. During the landing roll, the airplane hit soft terrain and the landing gear collapsed. No evidence of mechanical failure found; pilot suspected fuel contamination but unsubstantiated.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jan 1995 involved a Cessna A185E, registration N748, operated by Wittenberg, Dennis E., at Hillsboro, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X02916. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.