No fatalities

Student Pilot Bounces During Crosswind Landing (N95975)

Grand Forks, ND, US

On October 24, 1989, a Cessna 152 (registration N95975) operated by University OF North Dakota was involved in an aviation accident near Grand Forks, ND. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER FLARE AND IMPROPER RECOVERY FROM A BOUNCED LANDING. THE WIND CONDITION WAS CONSIDERED TO BE A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 16 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight landed hard on runway 17L, bouncing twice before coming to rest in a nose-down attitude. The approach was steep due to strong, variable winds.

Incident Details

A student pilot was returning from a solo cross-country flight when they attempted to land on runway 17L. The wind was variable from 120 to 180 degrees at 19 knots. According to the pilot, after turning to final approach, they realized they were high and the wind was stronger than preferred. The pilot extended full flaps and reduced power, resulting in a steep approach. The aircraft touched down earlier than expected and at an angle, bounced twice, and then came to a stop in a nose-down attitude.

Aircraft and Pilot Information

The pilot was a student operating alone. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, or precise location. No occupants other than the pilot are mentioned. The report includes no information about injuries or damage.

Weather Conditions

Wind was variable from 120 to 180 degrees at 19 knots. No other weather conditions were provided.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Oct 1989 Cessna 152 accident near Grand Forks, ND?

A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight landed hard on runway 17L, bouncing twice before coming to rest in a nose-down attitude. The approach was steep due to strong, variable winds.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Oct 1989 Cessna 152 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Oct 1989 involved a Cessna 152, registration N95975, operated by University OF North Dakota, at Grand Forks, ND.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S IMPROPER FLARE AND IMPROPER RECOVERY FROM A BOUNCED LANDING. THE WIND CONDITION WAS CONSIDERED TO BE A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29592. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.