On June 4, 1997, a Champion 7ECA (registration N5253X) was involved in an aviation accident near Gregory, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper planning/decision. The tailwind and location of trees were related factors. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb, the airplane began to descend and impacted trees. Post-accident inspection found no preexisting anomalies. Wind at a nearby station was 030 at 7 knots five minutes after the accident.
Accident Overview
After checking the windsocks at each end of the runway, the pilot selected runway 20 for departure. During the initial climb, the airplane began to descend, and it subsequently impacted trees.
Weather Conditions
About five minutes after the accident, a weather reporting station located 22 nautical miles southwest of the accident site recorded the wind as 030 degrees at 7 knots.
Pilot and Aircraft Information
The pilot reported no mechanical difficulties with the airplane at the time of the accident. After the accident, inspections of the airplane and engine failed to reveal any preexisting anomalies.