Casualties unknown

Tailwheel Strike Leads to Nose-Over During Crosswind Go-Around (CFZMZ)

Williston, ND, US

On April 15, 1982, a Cessna 170A (registration CFZMZ) operated by Ken Shearer was involved in an aviation accident near Williston, ND. 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

After delaying landing due to unfavorable winds, a pilot attempted to land on runway 29 in a crosswind. During the landing roll, a wind gust lifted a wing, prompting an unsuccessful go-around that resulted in a tailwheel striking a fence and the aircraft nosing over.

Flight and Landing Decision

Upon arrival for landing, the pilot observed unfavorable wind conditions. Instead of landing immediately, the pilot decided to fly in the local area until the winds subsided. After approximately one hour of loitering, the pilot selected runway 29 for landing. The wind was reported from 020 degrees, creating a crosswind component relative to the runway. While on the downwind leg, the pilot estimated the wind velocity to be around 5 knots.

Landing and Go-Around Attempt

The landing on runway 29 commenced. As the aircraft decelerated and was nearly stopped, the pilot noticed dust and wind moving across the grass field. A wind gust then lifted one of the wings. In response, the pilot initiated a go-around. However, the go-around attempt was unsuccessful, and the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway.

Collision with Fence and Nose-Over

After veering off the runway, the pilot attempted to clear a fence ahead. The tailwheel struck the fence, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and nose over.

Reported Wind Conditions

Although the pilot estimated light winds during the approach, subsequent reports indicated that the prevailing wind velocity was 25 knots, gusting to 40 knots. The airport also had an available runway 03/21, which was 4,800 feet long.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Apr 1982 Cessna 170A accident near Williston, ND?

After delaying landing due to unfavorable winds, a pilot attempted to land on runway 29 in a crosswind. During the landing roll, a wind gust lifted a wing, prompting an unsuccessful go-around that resulted in a tailwheel striking a fence and the aircraft nosing over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Apr 1982 involved a Cessna 170A, registration CFZMZ, operated by Ken Shearer, at Williston, ND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X01946. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.