In January 1951, Mt. Hood in Oregon unveiled its unique “Cloudliner” aerial tram, but it was shut down nearly two years later.

The luxurious Cloudliner with interior heat and leather seating appeared on the cover of Popular Science magazine, touting it as an engineering feat. Despite its uniqueness and popularity, a combination of factors culminated quickly and this tram was shut down for good almost as quickly as it went up.

What caused it fail at the same time that Mt. Hood became the most popular skiing destination in the western United States? Watch the video to find out why this eye-catching invention didn’t last.