N8423H

On July 26, 2025, at 1840 central daylight time, a Piper PA-28RT-201T airplane, N8423H, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Brookings, South Dakota. The airline transport pilot and passenger were uninjured. The airplane was operated under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a work use flight.

The pilot stated that during a departure climb from runway 12 at Brookings Regional Airport (BKX), Brookings, South Dakota, the fuel flow gauge indication was fluctuating. He initiated a return to BKX for a precautionary landing and entered the left downwind for runway 17. The engine continued to operate and there were no abnormal sounds or other abnormal instrument indications. During the completion of the base to final turn for runway 17, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot then performed a forced landing to a field where the airplane impacted a fence and the field. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and both wing flaps.

The airplane was retained for further examination.