Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Fence and Bushes During Takeoff (N87546)

Port Lavaca, TX, US

On September 2, 1983, a Cessna 421C (registration N87546) was involved in an aviation accident near Port Lavaca, TX. 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

During takeoff from a 2300-foot shell and turf runway, an aircraft struck a fence and bushes, then slid to a stop in undergrowth. The pilot had calculated takeoff distance using a chart for a dry hard surfaced level runway.

Accident Details

The aircraft was attempting takeoff from a runway constructed of shell and turf, measuring 2300 feet in length. During the takeoff roll, it collided with a fence and bushes before coming to rest.

Takeoff Performance

The pilot had estimated the required takeoff distance using a performance chart that assumed dry, hard-surfaced, level runway conditions. A witness reported that the acceleration appeared slow. Tire tracks from the aircraft were observed on the runway, extending to a point approximately 10 feet from the departure end.

Post-Impact Sequence

After striking the fence and the tops of bushes and trees, the aircraft settled into undergrowth and slid to a stop. At the time of the accident, the aircraft weighed 6718 pounds.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Sept 1983 Cessna 421C accident near Port Lavaca, TX?

During takeoff from a 2300-foot shell and turf runway, an aircraft struck a fence and bushes, then slid to a stop in undergrowth. The pilot had calculated takeoff distance using a chart for a dry hard surfaced level runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Sept 1983 involved a Cessna 421C, registration N87546, at Port Lavaca, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44530. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.