Casualties unknown

Overweight Airplane with Aft Center of Gravity Crashes in Field (N5351M)

Bushland, TX, US

On August 24, 1988, a Cessna 152 (registration N5351M) was involved in an aviation accident near Bushland, TX. 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

An airplane with an aft center of gravity and overweight conditions impacted an open cultivated field at high speed in a 75-degree nose-down attitude. No preimpact problems were found with the airplane or powerplant.

Accident Overview

The accident airplane impacted terrain at high speed, striking an open cultivated field in a near wings-level, 75-degree nose-down attitude. No preimpact problems were identified with the airframe or powerplant. The airplane was determined to be overweight and had an aft center of gravity (CG) at the time of takeoff and at the moment of the accident.

Witness Report

No witnesses observed the actual impact. However, one witness reported hearing the airplane flying back and forth in the agricultural area prior to the accident.

Findings

Post-accident examination revealed no anomalies with the airplane or its engine. The overweight condition and aft CG were noted as factual conditions present during the flight. The airplane came to rest in an open field, having been destroyed by impact forces.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Aug 1988 Cessna 152 accident near Bushland, TX?

An airplane with an aft center of gravity and overweight conditions impacted an open cultivated field at high speed in a 75-degree nose-down attitude. No preimpact problems were found with the airplane or powerplant.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Aug 1988 involved a Cessna 152, registration N5351M, at Bushland, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26563. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.