Casualties unknown

Low and Slow Approach Ends in Hard Landing and Ground Impact at West Fargo Airport (N9499Y)

West Fargo, ND, US

On February 20, 1987, a Cessna T210N (registration N9499Y) operated by Tri State Drilling & Equipment was involved in an aviation accident near West Fargo, 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

An aircraft on final approach to West Fargo Airport was observed flying low and slow, then struck the ground hard, bounced, and flew in a sweeping arc before its left wing tip contacted the ground. It subsequently hit a road embankment and came to rest in a field. Ice was found on the aircraft and ground near the accident site approximately half an hour later.

Accident Sequence

During final approach to West Fargo Airport, the aircraft was observed flying at a low altitude and reduced speed. It continued its descent until contacting the ground with a hard impact. Following the initial touchdown, the aircraft rebounded and continued flying at a low altitude, maneuvering in a large sweeping arc. During this maneuver, the left wing tip made contact with the ground. The aircraft then struck a road embankment and came to a stop in a farmer's field a short distance away.

Findings

Approximately half an hour after the accident, ice was found on the aircraft and on the ground near the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Feb 1987 Cessna T210N accident near West Fargo, ND?

An aircraft on final approach to West Fargo Airport was observed flying low and slow, then struck the ground hard, bounced, and flew in a sweeping arc before its left wing tip contacted the ground. It subsequently hit a road embankment and came to rest in a field. Ice was found on the aircraft and ground near the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Feb 1987 involved a Cessna T210N, registration N9499Y, operated by Tri State Drilling & Equipment, at West Fargo, ND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30215. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.