NTSB Releases Preliminary Report on Citation 550 Crash
The preliminary findings focus on cockpit roles, pilot experience, and technical and operational factors during the approach phase
A preliminary report has been published regarding the Cessna Citation 550 crash that occurred in the U.S. on December 18, 2025, in which seven people, including retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, lost their lives.
According to the report released by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the aircraft was being flown by the main pilot, Dennis Dutton. His son, Jack Dutton, was seated in the right seat and had approximately 175 hours of flight experience, but was not authorized to serve as a co-pilot on this flight. It was noted that control of the aircraft was briefly handed over to Jack Dutton during the flight, but was taken back by Dennis Dutton before the approach phase.
Cockpit voice recordings revealed that after takeoff there were inconsistent indications in the engines and flight instruments, and the pilots discussed issues particularly related to altitude and power readings. Weather conditions included limited visibility and a low cloud ceiling, and the aircraft lost altitude and airspeed during the approach before crashing.
The NTSB stated that the report is based on preliminary findings and that technical and human factors investigations are ongoing.
