FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Collision with Tree After Takeoff from Mowed Grass Strip (N89575)

Opelousas, LA, US

On August 28, 1983, a Cessna 152 (registration N89575) was involved in an aviation accident near Opelousas, LA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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 pilot aborted three takeoffs due to long grass, mowed it and extended the strip, then took off alone to test. Later, with a passenger, the aircraft failed to climb above 50 ft, struck power lines, and collided with a tree.

Event Details

The pilot had aborted three takeoff attempts from a short grass strip, determining that the grass was too long. After mowing the grass and clearing an additional area to extend the length of the strip, the pilot conducted a solo takeoff to assess whether the strip was suitable for takeoff.

Pilot Actions

Following the solo flight, the pilot landed and then attempted a takeoff with a passenger onboard. According to the pilot, after takeoff the aircraft was unable to climb above 50 feet. While attempting to avoid power lines, the aircraft collided with a tree. The pilot also stated that he should have delayed the departure until the temperature decreased, estimating the ambient temperature to be about 90 degrees.

Outcome

The aircraft struck power lines and a tree during the takeoff attempt. The report does not specify injuries or damage details.

Controlled flight into terrain

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Aug 1983 Cessna 152 accident near Opelousas, LA?

A pilot aborted three takeoffs due to long grass, mowed it and extended the strip, then took off alone to test. Later, with a passenger, the aircraft failed to climb above 50 ft, struck power lines, and collided with a tree.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Aug 1983 involved a Cessna 152, registration N89575, at Opelousas, LA.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44187. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.