When did Greg Biffle receive his multi-engine pilot certification? Key facts explained following the deadly Statesville plane crash

Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family have died in a tragic plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on December 18.

According to the reports, Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell reported to ABC News that two children and five adults died in the crash. Reports indicated that the Cessna Citation business jet, registered to a company owned by Biffle, crashed while attempting to land around 10:15 a.m. local time, bursting into flames off the end of the runway.

FAA records show that Greg Biffle had received his multi-engine pilot certification in March. The National Transportation Safety Board reported to WCNC that Biffle's private pilot's license would not have allowed him to be the sole pilot on that flight. He was reportedly accompanied by another pilot, Dennis Dutton. He was an airline transport pilot and rated to fly the specific kind of aircraft.

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Key details following Greg Biffle plane crash

The tragic death of Greg Biffle, a retired NASCAR driver, his wife Christina and his children Ryder and Emma, who died in a plane crash in at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina has shaken the NASCAR community and others.

According to FAA records, the plane was owned by GB Aviation Leasing, a limited liability company based in North Carolina. Reported Greg Biffle was the manager of the company.

Besides the Biffle family, the other victims killed in the December 18, 2025, plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport were Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth. A joint statement was released from the Biffle, Grossu, Dutton & Lunders Families:

“Greg and Cristine were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma. Emma was a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people. Ryder was an active, curious and infinitely joyful child.”

The statement also paid tribute to the other victims, and added:

“Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them. Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him.”

John Ferguson, manager of the airport in Statesville stated that the cause of the crash is not known yet. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board have been conducting the investigation into the case. The airport has been closed until further notice as it will take time to clear the debris, noted Ferguson.

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Greg Biffle has been fondly remembered by the NASCAR community who was more than a champion driver. He was known for championships in the Truck Series (2000) and Xfinity Series (2002). He and his wife, Cristina were recognized as philanthropists, particularly for their relief efforts after Hurricane Helene and support for animal welfare and NASCAR-related causes.

Wadsworth was a well-known figure in the NASCAR community, recognized as a motorhome driver for retired driver Kenny Wallace for six years.

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