No fatalities

Cessna 172 and Beech C23 Collide During Approach at Hanscom Field (N97313)

Bedford, MA, US

On October 17, 1987, a Cessna 172P (registration N97313) was involved in an aviation accident near Bedford, MA. No fatalities were reported. 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

A Cessna 172 and a Beech C23 collided in flight while both pilots were arriving to land on Runway 11 at Hanscom Field. Both aircraft sustained damage but landed safely.

Collision During Landing Approach

Two aircraft collided in flight as their pilots were arriving to land on Runway 11 at Hanscom Field in Massachusetts. The aircraft involved were a Cessna 172, registration N97313, and a Beech C23, registration N6718Z.

Flight Paths and Evasive Action

The pilot of the Cessna had originally planned to land at Beverly, Massachusetts, but diverted to Hanscom Field due to weather conditions. As the two aircraft converged, the Cessna was in a left turn. The Beech pilot saw the Cessna just before impact and took evasive action.

Damage and Outcome

During the collision, the elevator of the Beech C23 and the right wing and propeller of the Cessna 172 were damaged. Despite the damage, both pilots were able to land safely.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Oct 1987 Cessna 172P accident near Bedford, MA?

A Cessna 172 and a Beech C23 collided in flight while both pilots were arriving to land on Runway 11 at Hanscom Field. Both aircraft sustained damage but landed safely.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Oct 1987 Cessna 172P accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Oct 1987 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N97313, at Bedford, MA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32427. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.