On August 13, 1999, a Cessna 172G (registration N4425L) was involved in an aviation accident near Glenarm, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's selection of the wrong runway for the prevailing winds. Factors were the pilot's misunderstanding of the wind information and the tailwind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported that after takeoff, the airplane drifted right and struck corn, causing the aircraft to flip and come to rest inverted. The pilot noted he should have taken off in the opposite direction.
Takeoff and Initial Climb
The pilot stated that he listened to the Springfield ATIS broadcast and set the altimeter before departure. The broadcast indicated wind from 290 degrees at 17 knots. He then taxied to the west end of the airstrip and performed a run-up. During takeoff, the pilot began to lift off at an indicated airspeed of 55 to 60 knots.
Drift and Corn Contact
On climb out, the airplane drifted to the right and struck standing corn. The contact between the right wing and the corn pulled the airplane further into the cornfield. Subsequently, the airplane came to rest inverted on its top.
Pilot Comment
The pilot stated that he should have been taking off to the west rather than the direction he chose.
Examination
No further details were provided regarding aircraft damage, injuries, or other operational factors.