FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Low Approach Results in Collision with Guide Truck at Private Airfield (N8210Y)

Eckert, CO, US

On April 2, 1993, a Piper PA-30 (registration N8210Y) operated by Widner, Edward D. was involved in an aviation accident near Eckert, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue an approach that was too low, resulting in the aircraft striking a vehicle positioned at the end of the runway. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft struck a pickup truck guiding it to an unlighted strip during a low approach, injuring a child and forcing a wheels-up landing.

What happened

The incident occurred at a private airfield that lacked runway lighting. To assist the pilot in locating the end of the runway, a pickup truck was positioned with its headlights illuminated. The pilot reported being too low on the final approach segment. During this phase, the nose gear of the aircraft struck the top of the truck's cab. Three children and one adult were occupants of the vehicle at the time of impact.

Findings

The collision resulted in serious head injuries to a four-year-old child who was seated in the truck. Following the impact with the ground vehicle, the airplane continued forward and executed a wheels-up landing on the runway surface. The mechanical failure was limited to the nose gear assembly due to the contact with the truck.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to continue an approach that was too low, resulting in the aircraft striking a vehicle positioned at the end of the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Apr 1993 Piper PA-30 accident near Eckert, CO?

An aircraft struck a pickup truck guiding it to an unlighted strip during a low approach, injuring a child and forcing a wheels-up landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Apr 1993 involved a Piper PA-30, registration N8210Y, operated by Widner, Edward D., at Eckert, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to continue an approach that was too low, resulting in the aircraft striking a vehicle positioned at the end of the runway.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12117. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.