Mechanical problems forced the pilot of a small plane bound for Fargo to land short of its destination on Interstate 94, officials said.

The 1974 Cessna Cardinal was flying from Bismarck to Fargo late Saturday afternoon when its engine failed, according to the Highway Patrol.

Jerry Schauer, of Bismarck, “was able to safely glide the plane onto I-94” before the aircraft made its way into the ditch undamaged about 12 miles west of Valley City, the patrol said in a statement.

Schauer, the only person aboard, was not hurt, according to the patrol.