What happened
On October 9, 2019, a Cessna 172, registration N6483B, crashed near Aberdeen, South Dakota, resulting in 1 fatality. The aircraft departed Aberdeen Regional Airport (ABR) at approximately 2231 CDT. The pilot intended to fly the airplane to a hangar in North Dakota, but the aircraft failed to arrive at its destination.
Prior to the flight, the aircraft had been assessed for an annual inspection at a local fixed base operator. The inspection revealed several issues, including cracked or broken landing gear saddles, and the aircraft was issued an Aircraft Condition Notice stating it was unairworthy. The pilot chose not to complete the necessary repairs and parked the aircraft on the ramp.
At the time of the accident, the area was experiencing dark night instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) with low clouds, fog, and mist. The aircraft's wreckage was located approximately 12 days later in a field about 7 miles north of ABR. The wreckage distribution indicated a high-speed, low-angle impact with the terrain, with the left wing initially striking a 60-foot tree.
The investigation
Investigators found that the pilot did not hold a valid pilot certificate, instrument rating, or medical certificate at the time of the accident, though he had recently been granted a student pilot certificate and third-class medical.
Post-accident examination of the engine and airframe revealed no mechanical anomalies that contributed to the crash. While the carburetor heat control was found in the OFF position, the carburetor and air box were too damaged to evaluate. The propeller blades showed damage consistent with rotation at the time of impact.
Toxicology results identified the presence of cetirizine, citalopram, bupropion, and trazodone in the pilot's system. While these medications are used for depression and could be potentially impairing, investigators could not determine if they contributed to the accident.
Findings
- The pilot was flying in dark night instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) without a visible horizon.
- The pilot was not instrument-rated and was flying under a student pilot certificate.
- The aircraft had been previously tagged as unairworthy due to landing gear saddle issues.
- The aircraft was operating in conditions where serious carburetor icing was possible.