NTSB Provides Preliminary Update on Greg Biffle Plane Crash Investigation

Preliminary Findings on Greg Biffle Plane Crash

• ✈️ The aircraft, a 1981 Cestna, was registered to GB Aviation Leasing LLC and departed Statesville Regional Airport at approximately 10:05 a.m. EST.
• 📉 Preliminary ADSB data indicates the plane made an initial left turn, followed by another left turn back towards the airport before initiating a left base turn for runway 28.
• 💥 The initial point of impact was a runway light stanchion approximately 1,800 ft from the runway threshold, followed by impacts with trees, other stanchions, and the airport perimeter fence.
• 🔥 A post-impact fire consumed a significant portion of the fuselage and inboard wing sections.

Investigation Process and Recovered Data

• 📊 Investigators are analyzing radar, ADSB data, video footage, witness statements, and audio recordings.
• 📦 Wreckage removal will be coordinated for further analysis in a secure location.
• 🎤 The cockpit voice recorder (CVR) was recovered and is en route to Washington D.C. for analysis; the aircraft was not required to have a flight data recorder.

Public Assistance and Ongoing Investigation

• 📧 The NTSB is requesting any photos, videos, or witness accounts related to the accident via email at witness@ntsb.gov.
• 📍 The NTSB team will remain on the ground in North Carolina to gather evidence as needed.
• 📰 Further updates will be provided as they become available on ntsb.gov and X (@NTSB_newsroom).

Acknowledgements

• 🙏 The NTSB expressed heartfelt thanks to first responders, the medical examiner's office, the airport director, and local/state law enforcement for their assistance in securing and supporting the investigation site.