Casualties unknown

Pilot Attempts Short Takeoff on Grass Strip, Collides with Water Trough (N52811)

Sanderson, TX, US

On November 26, 1984, a Cessna 182P (registration N52811) was involved in an aviation accident near Sanderson, 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

The pilot used only the last 700-800 ft of a 3,600-ft turf runway due to grass and mud. Rotating at the end to avoid a fence, the aircraft failed to climb, collided with ground and a concrete water trough, and came to rest nose-down with collapsed landing gear.

Accident Sequence

The pilot initiated a takeoff from a 3,600-foot-long turf runway but limited the takeoff roll to the final 700 to 800 feet. This decision was necessitated by grass and mud covering other portions of the strip. As the aircraft reached the end of the runway, the pilot rotated to avoid a fence. However, the airplane was unable to maintain a climb after rotation.

Collision and Damage

Beyond the fence, the aircraft entered an area of unimproved terrain. It collided with the ground and struck a concrete water trough. The impact caused the airplane to come to rest in a nose-down attitude. All three landing gear collapsed during the accident sequence.

Runway Conditions

The runway was a turf strip measuring 3,600 feet in length. Grass and mud were present on portions of the runway, prompting the pilot to use only the last portion for the takeoff attempt. No other runway characteristics are specified.

No injuries or fatalities are mentioned in the available information. The aircraft sustained damage to its landing gear and likely other structural components, but a detailed damage list is not provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Nov 1984 Cessna 182P accident near Sanderson, TX?

The pilot used only the last 700-800 ft of a 3,600-ft turf runway due to grass and mud. Rotating at the end to avoid a fence, the aircraft failed to climb, collided with ground and a concrete water trough, and came to rest nose-down with collapsed landing gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Nov 1984 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N52811, at Sanderson, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41590. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.