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Engine Power Loss Leads to Hard Landing and Collision with Railroad Tracks (N7415W)

Hudson, CO, US

On August 6, 1995, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N7415W) was involved in an aviation accident near Hudson, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced engine power loss at 500 feet, restarted the engine but it failed again, leading to a hard landing that tore off the landing gear and resulted in a collision with railroad tracks. Subsequent examination found no engine discrepancies.

Accident Sequence

The pilot departed and initiated a turn onto the crosswind leg. At an altitude of 500 feet, the engine lost power. The pilot then maneuvered toward an open field and successfully restarted the engine, but power was lost again shortly thereafter. Realizing the intended landing field was no longer reachable, the pilot prepared for an off-airport landing.

Impact and Damage

The airplane touched down hard, bounced, and went over an embankment. The landing gear was torn off during the impact. The aircraft then skidded on its fuselage before colliding with railroad tracks.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, the engine and its accessories were examined. No discrepancies were found with the engine or its components.

Engine failure

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Aug 1995 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Hudson, CO?

A pilot experienced engine power loss at 500 feet, restarted the engine but it failed again, leading to a hard landing that tore off the landing gear and resulted in a collision with railroad tracks. Subsequent examination found no engine discrepancies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Aug 1995 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N7415W, at Hudson, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE 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/20001207X04232. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.