No fatalities

Smoke-filled Piper PA-28 crashes after takeoff, pilot escapes uninjured (N54368)

W. Peru, ME, US

On May 29, 1988, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N54368) operated by John Daley was involved in an aviation accident near W. Peru, ME. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot escaped uninjured after a Piper PA-28 filled with smoke post-takeoff. The aircraft struck trees and burned; cause of fire remains undetermined.

What happened

Shortly after takeoff, the cockpit of a Piper PA-28 became filled with smoke at an altitude of approximately 800 feet. Facing reduced visibility and potential mechanical issues, the pilot attempted to execute an emergency landing on a nearby road. During this attempt, the aircraft struck trees, which sheared off the wings. The fuselage continued forward, landing inverted on the road surface and immediately becoming engulfed in flames.

Findings

The student pilot successfully escaped the wreckage with no injuries. Due to the complete destruction of the cockpit area by fire, investigators were unable to determine the specific cause of the smoke or the subsequent fire.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 May 1988 Piper PA-28-140 accident near W. Peru, ME?

A student pilot escaped uninjured after a Piper PA-28 filled with smoke post-takeoff. The aircraft struck trees and burned; cause of fire remains undetermined.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 May 1988 Piper PA-28-140 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 May 1988 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N54368, operated by John Daley, at W. Peru, ME.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25812. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.