2019 Cessna 172 Accident Near Aberdeen, South Dakota (N6483B)

Accident Overview and History of Flight On October 9, 2019, at approximately 2235 CDT, a Cessna 172, registration N6483B, was destroyed in an accident near Aberdeen, South Dakota. The pilot sustained fatal injuries. The flight was a personal operation conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. Records indicated the aircraft was flown to Aberdeen Regional Airport (ABR) on September 30, 2019, for an annual inspection assessment. The FBO issued an Aircraft Condition Notice (FAA Form 8620-1) deeming the aircraft unairworthy due to broken or cracked landing gear saddles and other findings. The pilot declined to have the work completed and parked the aircraft. On the night of the accident, the pilot was dropped off at the airport after normal operating hours and intended to fly the aircraft to a North Dakota airport. Video surveillance showed the aircraft taking off from runway 31 at 2231. The aircraft was reported missing and its wreckage was located 12 days later, on October 21, 2019, in a farmer's field about 7 miles north of ABR.