NASCAR champion Greg Biffle wasn't flying the Cessna Citation 550 that was having multiple problems shortly before it crashed, killing all seven people aboard. m. ) Airport.
His young adult son Jack Dutton was in the cockpit's right seat and Biffle was seated near the cockpit in the aircraft's cabin area. The Cessna Citation 550 is generally certified for a minimum two-pilot crew, but it can be operated by a single pilot under specific conditions. During the brief flight, the men noted problems with a thrust reverser indicator light, a gauge, a turbine temperature indicator, an altitude indicator, and some left-side instruments.
The plane was taxing to the runway for takeoff when Biffle commented that the left engine was producing more power than the right and indicated there may have been a faulty gauge. m. to contact the Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center and activate the flight's instrument flight rules flight plan, but was unsuccessful due to the controller's workload and associated radio communications.
, Dennis Dutton and Biffle discussed taking the plane to a higher altitude even though they were technically required to remain on visual flight rules. Shortly after, Biffle noted a difference between the left and right engine interstage turbine temperature indications. m.
Dennis Dutton remarked that his altitude indicator wasn't working properly and that additional left-side flight instruments also may not have been working properly. , control of the plane was transferred to Jack Dutton at an altitude of 4,500 feet. m.
on its return to the Statesville Airport, hitting the runway's easternmost light station and a group of trees about 235 feet from the plane's initial impact, which were sheared about 12 feet above ground level. This was also the first indication of fire as there were blackened branches and grass near the trees' west side.
The fact that Jack Dutton, who wasn't qualified to perform second-in-command duties, was in the cockpit with his father Dennis Dutton and NASCAR champion Greg Biffle raises serious concerns about pilot training and experience. This incident highlights the importance of adhering to standard operating procedures and following established protocols for emergency situations.
