Casualties unknown

Unauthorized Flight Ends in Crash; Occupants Abandon Aircraft (N20389)

Plainwell, MI, US

On May 27, 1988, a Cessna 172M (registration N20389) was involved in an aviation accident near Plainwell, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Aircraft control was not maintained. 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 an unauthorized flight of unknown duration, aircraft control was not maintained. A witness saw the aircraft wobble and crash into grass near the runway. The occupants abandoned the aircraft before police arrived. Investigation continues.

Incident Overview

An unauthorized flight of unknown duration ended when the aircraft lost control and crashed into grass adjacent to the runway. The person(s) operating the aircraft are unknown, as is the total flight time. Police and a witness arrived at the scene to find the aircraft unoccupied.

Witness Account

A witness observed the aircraft as it approached the runway, noticing that it 'wobbled' during the approach. The witness then saw the aircraft 'crash' into the grass on the left side of the approach end of the runway. No further details of the witness's observation have been released.

Aftermath

By the time the witness and police reached the aircraft, the pilot and any other occupants had already abandoned it. Police are continuing their investigation into the incident. The aircraft's registration and type have not been disclosed.

Investigation

The investigating authorities have determined that during the unauthorized flight, aircraft control was not maintained. The reason for the loss of control has not been specified. Police are working to identify the person(s) involved and the circumstances leading to the unauthorized flight. Further information is pending.

Probable cause

Aircraft control was not maintained.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 May 1988 Cessna 172M accident near Plainwell, MI?

During an unauthorized flight of unknown duration, aircraft control was not maintained. A witness saw the aircraft wobble and crash into grass near the runway. The occupants abandoned the aircraft before police arrived. Investigation continues.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 May 1988 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N20389, at Plainwell, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Aircraft control was not maintained.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25655. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.