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Low Pass Over Bean Field Ends in Ground Impact (N3269L)

Hatton, ND, US

On July 12, 1989, a Cessna 172H (registration N3269L) operated by Grindland, Ethan P. was involved in an aviation accident near Hatton, ND. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN SUFFICIENT CLEARANCE ABOVE THE GROUND. THE TAILWIND, HIGH OBSTRUCTION (SHELTER BELT), AND DOWNDRAFT WERE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS. 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 pilot performing a low pass over a bean field to check for grasshoppers struck the ground after descending over a tree shelter belt, resulting in extensive aircraft damage.

Incident Details

A pilot was conducting a low pass over a bean field to inspect for grasshoppers. The approach was from the north, and the aircraft crossed over a shelter belt consisting of trees approximately 50 to 60 feet in height. During the descent over the trees, the pilot reported a sudden sensation described as feeling as if the bottom dropped out of the airplane.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that after the sensation, he pulled back on the yoke. The aircraft began to respond to the control input but subsequently struck the ground. The impact occurred with the wings level and the aircraft in a slightly tail-low attitude.

Outcome

The aircraft sustained extensive damage as a result of the collision with the ground. The pilot's most recent medical certificate was dated February 6, 1987. No other details regarding occupants, injuries, or aircraft specifics were provided.

Weather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jul 1989 Cessna 172H accident near Hatton, ND?

A pilot performing a low pass over a bean field to check for grasshoppers struck the ground after descending over a tree shelter belt, resulting in extensive aircraft damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Jul 1989 Cessna 172H accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jul 1989 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N3269L, operated by Grindland, Ethan P., at Hatton, ND.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN SUFFICIENT CLEARANCE ABOVE THE GROUND. THE TAILWIND, HIGH OBSTRUCTION (SHELTER BELT), AND DOWNDRAFT WERE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28808. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.