Probable cause
A loss of engine power during climb to cruise for reasons that could not be determined due to no postaccident examination.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that about 15 minutes after departure and during the climb to cruise altitude, the engine lost power. The pilot checked the cockpit gauges and switched fuel tanks, however the engine would not restart. A forced landing was initiated and during the descent in mountainous terrain, the airplane collided with trees and the terrain.
The wreckage has not been recovered and the reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA013 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 11, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Cody, Wyoming
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 28-180
- N-number
- N31BA
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1965
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.