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Tragic Night Flight: Business Owner Dies in Allegheny National Forest Crash

John Burley, a Windber business owner, lost his life when the small aircraft he piloted crashed into trees in the Allegheny National Forest on December 29, 2023. The accident occurred while he was en route from Erie to Johnstown under darkening skies.

Investigation Findings

• Flight Rules: Burley chose visual flight rules (VFR) for a night flight, despite forecasts of clouds and light snow.
• Training Gap: He held a private pilot license but lacked the instrument‑flying training required when visibility deteriorates.
• Pre‑Flight Preparations: No flight plan was filed and no weather briefing was requested.
• Weather Conditions: The sky had become overcast, and light snow began as the aircraft entered a new area.
• Crash Dynamics: The plane performed a left turn and climb, then entered a steep spiral descent—consistent with the graveyard spiral disorientation phenomenon.
• Mechanical Status: No mechanical faults were identified on the aircraft.

Substance Findings

Post‑mortem toxicology revealed methamphetamine, amphetamine, and other substances in Burley’s liver. The report could not definitively determine the extent to which these drugs influenced his decision‑making during worsening conditions.

Health Background

Burley’s last medical exam (January 31, 2023) reported no health issues and no medication use.

Takeaway

This incident underscores the dangers of night flying without adequate training or equipment, especially when weather conditions are expected to worsen.