FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Pilot Strikes Trees After Departure on Turf Runway (N89414)

Greenville, NY, US

On April 21, 1996, a Cessna 152 (registration N89414) was involved in an aviation accident near Greenville, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to gain adequate airspeed due to inadequate planning in which he conducted a downwind takeoff, resulting in a stall mush, and collision with trees. 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

A newly certified private pilot encountered turbulence and failed to climb after departing a turf runway surrounded by trees, subsequently striking trees beyond the runway end.

Departure and Conditions

The pilot initiated the takeoff on turf runway 7, which was bordered by trees. According to the pilot, the winds were variable with a light tailwind. After becoming airborne, the airplane experienced turbulence and was unable to gain altitude. It eventually struck trees located beyond the departure end of the runway.

Engine and Weather Information

No mechanical issues with the engine were reported. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) indicated that the prevailing winds in the area were from 260 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 20 knots.

Pilot Experience

The pilot had received a private pilot certificate three weeks prior to the accident and had accumulated a total flight time of 102 hours.

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Apr 1996 Cessna 152 accident near Greenville, NY?

A newly certified private pilot encountered turbulence and failed to climb after departing a turf runway surrounded by trees, subsequently striking trees beyond the runway end.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Apr 1996 involved a Cessna 152, registration N89414, at Greenville, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to gain adequate airspeed due to inadequate planning in which he conducted a downwind takeoff, resulting in a stall mush, and collision with trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05660. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.