A private jet registered to NASCAR driver Greg Biffle crashed upon landing at Statesville Regional Airport on Thursday morning, resulting in multiple fatalities, according to local authorities and federal aviation officials. The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fatal crash of a Cessna Citation aircraft just after 10:15 a.m., launching a major investigation by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
What We Know About the North Carolina Crash?
The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office stated that first responders found the aircraft “fully engulfed in flames.” Preliminary information indicates the crash occurred during its landing approach. While the exact number of souls on board is yet to be formally released, early reports from law enforcement confirm multiple fatalities. The FAA has identified the aircraft as a twin-engine Cessna Citation.
Key Confirmed Details:
Time: Approximately 10:15 a.m. ET, Thursday.
Location: Approach to Statesville Regional Airport, Iredell County, NC.
Aircraft: 1981 Cessna Citation II (business jet).
Registration: FAA records confirm the aircraft is registered to Greg Biffle, the 2000 NASCAR Truck Series and 2002 Busch Series champion.
Status: Active FAA/NTSB investigation. The NTSB will lead the inquiry and provide updates on both the investigation and victim identification.
Was Greg Biffle On Board the Aircraft?
This remains the most urgent and widespread question. As of this reporting, it is unclear if Greg Biffle was a passenger on the flight. The Sheriff’s Office and NASCAR have not released the manifest. Biffle, a long-time resident of North Carolina, is known to pilot aircraft, but ownership does not confirm presence. NASCAR officials told, “We are aware of the situation and are gathering information. Our thoughts are with everyone involved.”
NOTHING left of crashed jet except its tail
Records show the 1981 Cessna Citation II was owned by NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle
Unclear if he was on board https://t.co/Qp38rXQrVd pic.twitter.com/HDCuOUU1Hu
— RT (@RT_com) December 18, 2025
What Makes This Crash Unusual for Investigators?
While all crashes are complex, this incident presents specific investigative challenges and points of analysis that will be closely scrutinized.
Aircraft Type: The Cessna Citation II is a well-liked, dependable business jet with a strong safety record. Its sudden catastrophic collapse on approach during the day will receive the most attention.
Ownership Structure: The plane’s link to a high-profile public figure adds a layer of complexity but also means maintenance records and pilot logs will be thoroughly examined. The NTSB will trace the aircraft’s recent history meticulously.
Operational Context: The investigators will look at weather information, air traffic control communications, and radar tracks from Statesville (SVH) to Charlotte (CLT) to understand the final moments of the flight.
What Are the Immediate Next Steps for the Investigation?
A “Go Team” from the NTSB has been sent to the location. Over the next 12 to 24 months, their meticulous protocol will be implemented in stages.
On-Scene Examination (This Week): Investigators will document the wreckage distribution, recover the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder (if equipped), and begin interviewing witnesses, including air traffic controllers and ground personnel.
Preliminary Report: The NTSB will release an unbiased, accurate summary of the flight’s conditions, aircraft data, and timetable.
Final Determination: A full analysis will culminate in a final report declaring the probable cause, citing factors like mechanical failure, pilot error, weather, or a combination.
This is a developing story. Updates may follow.
