Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Initial Climb Leads to Forced Landing and Terrain Impact (N4912K)

Lander, WY, US

On February 17, 2005, a Cessna P210N (registration N4912K) operated by Brent G. Bills was involved in an aviation accident near Lander, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A contributing 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.

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

During initial takeoff climb, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing, but the aircraft impacted terrain and came to rest upright on a golf course. Examination revealed no anomalies; the reason for power loss was not determined.

Event Summary

During the initial takeoff climb, at approximately 500 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot responded by executing a left turn and attempting a forced landing back to the airport. However, the airplane subsequently impacted terrain and came to rest upright on a municipal golf course.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that prior to takeoff, the fuel tanks were topped off with fuel. A normal preflight inspection and engine run-up were completed before departure from runway 3. No issues were noted during these checks.

Examination Findings

A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that engine continuity from the crankshaft to the valve train and accessory gears was intact when the crankshaft was rotated by hand. Thumb compression was observed on all cylinders. Fuel was present in the fuel lines from the tank to the engine. No anomalies were noted with the engine or airframe that would have precluded normal operation.

Conclusion

The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Feb 2005 Cessna P210N accident near Lander, WY?

During initial takeoff climb, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing, but the aircraft impacted terrain and came to rest upright on a golf course. Examination revealed no anomalies; the reason for power loss was not determined.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Feb 2005 involved a Cessna P210N, registration N4912K, operated by Brent G. Bills, at Lander, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050222X00214. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.