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Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing in Field (N4262L)

Gunnison, CO, US

On February 9, 1996, a Cessna 172G (registration N4262L) operated by William M. Reeves was involved in an aviation accident near Gunnison, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). The lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing was a related factor. 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 13,000 feet, the engine gradually lost power. The pilot made a forced landing in a field, resulting in damage. An investigation found no abnormalities in the fuel, air, or engine systems.

Incident Overview

While cruising at 13,000 feet mean sea level on a cross-country flight, the aircraft's engine power gradually deteriorated, culminating in a complete loss of power. The pilot took remedial actions, which were unsuccessful, and executed a forced landing in a field approximately 4 miles from an airport. Upon landing, the aircraft encountered rough terrain and sustained damage.

Investigation Findings

An examination of the aircraft's fuel, fuel system, air system, engine, and carburetor revealed no evidence of abnormalities that would cause a loss of power.

History

Notably, the pilot had experienced a similar power loss with the same aircraft approximately six months earlier in the same area. On that occasion, the pilot landed the aircraft in a field without damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Feb 1996 Cessna 172G accident near Gunnison, CO?

During a cross-country flight at 13,000 feet, the engine gradually lost power. The pilot made a forced landing in a field, resulting in damage. An investigation found no abnormalities in the fuel, air, or engine systems.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Feb 1996 involved a Cessna 172G, registration N4262L, operated by William M. Reeves, at Gunnison, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). The lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing was a related factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05247. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.