Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Trees After Bounced Landing and Aborted Go-Around (N52938)

Santa FE, NM, US

On July 28, 1984, a Cessna 172 (registration N52938) operated by Post Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Santa FE, NM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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

An aircraft bounced multiple times on landing following a high, fast approach. The pilot aborted but failed to use right rudder and retract flaps, causing a left veer and collision with trees.

Accident Details

The aircraft was on landing approach when it made contact with the runway with excessive height and speed. This resulted in the aircraft bouncing several times. The pilot attempted to recover by adding power and aborting the landing.

Pilot Actions

During the go-around, the pilot did not apply right rudder, which caused the aircraft to veer to the left. Additionally, the pilot did not retract the flaps, preventing the aircraft from climbing above several feet above ground level. The pilot also failed to remove carburetor heat.

Outcome

While at a low altitude and veering left, the aircraft contacted several small trees alongside the runway. Subsequently, it struck the terrain. The aircraft sustained damage consistent with a collision with trees and terrain.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jul 1984 Cessna 172 accident near Santa FE, NM?

An aircraft bounced multiple times on landing following a high, fast approach. The pilot aborted but failed to use right rudder and retract flaps, causing a left veer and collision with trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jul 1984 involved a Cessna 172, registration N52938, operated by Post Aviation, at Santa FE, NM.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40297. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.