Casualties unknown

Engine Partial Power Loss During Takeoff Forces Landing, Aircraft Strikes Trees (N757XC)

Bridgeport, TX, US

On October 9, 1998, a Cessna 152 (registration N757XC) was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgeport, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. 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

During takeoff initial climb, an airplane experienced partial engine power loss at approximately 200 feet AGL. The pilot performed a forced landing into a field, but the aircraft impacted trees lining the field edge during the landing roll. The reason for the power loss could not be determined.

Event Details

During the initial climb after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level, the engine lost partial power. The pilot initiated a forced landing into a nearby small field. During the landing rollout, the airplane collided with trees situated along the perimeter of the field.

Prior Flight Issues

Earlier, the pilot had completed a cross-country flight during which the engine began running 'slightly rough.' Despite this, the pilot continued to the destination airport and landed. After landing, he conducted an engine run-up, applying full power and leaning the mixture. Following the run-up, the pilot reported that 'the magnetos performed perfectly fine.'

Subsequently, the pilot returned to the departure airport and refueled the airplane. During a pre-takeoff run-up, the pilot checked the magnetos again, noting they were 'perfectly fine,' and then departed. After takeoff, the pilot elected to perform several touch-and-go landings. The accident occurred during one of these subsequent takeoffs.

Investigation

An investigation was conducted into the incident. However, the specific reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Oct 1998 Cessna 152 accident near Bridgeport, TX?

During takeoff initial climb, an airplane experienced partial engine power loss at approximately 200 feet AGL. The pilot performed a forced landing into a field, but the aircraft impacted trees lining the field edge during the landing roll. The reason for the power loss could not be determined.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Oct 1998 involved a Cessna 152, registration N757XC, at Bridgeport, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11258. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.