Federal investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have clarified that retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle was not at the controls when the Cessna Citation 550 jet crashed on December 18, 2025, near Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina, killing him, his wife Cristina, their two children, and three others.1

The NTSB’s preliminary report identifies former commercial airline pilot Dennis Dutton as the aircraft’s captain. Jack Dutton, his son and a licensed single-engine pilot with only about 175 flight hours, occupied the co-pilot seat—but lacked the required type rating to serve as first officer on this jet. Neither Biffle nor Jack Dutton were properly endorsed to act as a co-pilot on the Cessna 550.2

Investigators noted pre-flight and in-flight malfunctions: a thrust reverser indicator light failed prior to takeoff, while the pilot’s altimeter and additional cockpit instruments reportedly malfunctioned once airborne. The crew—Biffle, Dennis Dutton, and Jack Dutton—was heard troubleshooting these issues via radio, until the cockpit voice recorder cut out intermittently. Eventually, the jet tracked too low, clipped approach light poles, and crashed about a third of a mile from the runway in a post-impact fire. Throttles were found fully forward—suggesting a final attempt to gain altitude.2

Separately, the NTSB has reported there was no evidence of an “uncontained engine failure” in either Pratt & Whitney engine, which were manufactured in Canada.3

Why this matters locally:

  • The findings underscore aviation safety rules and licensing requirements that extend well beyond major metropolitan areas—emphasizing that even licensed pilots must hold appropriate type ratings to serve as co-pilots.
  • No direct local connection to Longview, Kelso, or Cowlitz County, but the story is a reminder of how technical aviation regulations and safety procedures matter universally—including for any private or charter operations that may occur closer to home.

Next steps: The NTSB warns their investigation remains preliminary. Faulty instruments, the cockpit recorder’s incomplete data, and pilot qualifications are all under deeper review. A final report is expected within 12 to 24 months.3

Sources:

  • The Associated Press coverage, republished in multiple outlets, detailing Biffle’s non-pilot role, instruments malfunction, and cockpit dynamics. Links available via ABC News and NBC Sports reports.2
  • CBS Insider report on engine failure—or lack thereof—in the crash.3
  • Wikipedia’s summary of the NTSB’s findings, reinforcing pilot qualifications and seating assignments.20