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Engine Power Loss During Takeoff Results in Forced Landing at Rutland (N3203Q)

Rutland, VT, US

On September 29, 1995, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N3203Q) operated by Pierre Gourinchas was involved in an aviation accident near Rutland, VT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power during takeoff for undetermined reason(s), which resulted in a forced landing and subsequent collision with a tree and barn. 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

During takeoff from Rutland, the airplane's engine lost power, forcing a landing that impacted a tree and a barn. Witnesses reported rough engine sounds and lack of climb. Postaccident examination found no preimpact mechanical issues, and fuel samples showed no discrepancies.

Accident Overview

A single-engine airplane experienced an engine power loss during takeoff from Rutland, leading to a forced landing that resulted in impact with a tree and a barn. The pilot had previously landed at Rutland and refueled before departing from runway 13.

Witness Observations

Witnesses reported that the engine sounded rough during the takeoff roll and that the airplane failed to climb. The pilot performed a forced landing after the engine lost power.

Postaccident Examination

A thorough postaccident examination of the engine revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction. Additionally, samples of both the airport fuel and the airplane's fuel were tested, and no discrepancies were found.

Conclusion

The investigation did not identify a specific cause for the power loss. The examination and fuel tests did not reveal any anomalies that could explain the engine's failure.

Engine failure

Related events

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Sept 1995 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Rutland, VT?

During takeoff from Rutland, the airplane's engine lost power, forcing a landing that impacted a tree and a barn. Witnesses reported rough engine sounds and lack of climb. Postaccident examination found no preimpact mechanical issues, and fuel samples showed no discrepancies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Sept 1995 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N3203Q, operated by Pierre Gourinchas, at Rutland, VT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loss of engine power during takeoff for undetermined reason(s), which resulted in a forced landing and subsequent collision with a tree and barn.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04582. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.