NTSB: Right-Seat Pilot Lacked SIC Qualification in Fatal Citation Crash

Crew Qualification Issues Highlighted in Fatal Crash

The National Transportation Safety Board released its preliminary report Jan. 30 regarding a fatal Cessna Citation 550 accident near Statesville Regional Airport that killed all seven people aboard, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife and children, and pilots Dennis Dutton and Jack Dutton. Investigators found the right-seat occupant was not federally qualified as a second-in-command despite performing monitoring duties during the flight.

The left-seat pilot, Dennis Dutton, held a CE-500 type rating but lacked specific qualification for single-pilot operations without an SIC. The right-seat occupant, Jack Dutton — Dennis's adult son — held a private pilot certificate with about 175 total hours and was not certified to act as SIC in this twin-engine jet operation, though he handled checklists and radio duties.

Pre-Flight Anomalies and Instrument Failures

The preliminary report details pre-flight issues including a failed first start attempt of the left engine and an inoperative thrust reverser indicator. After takeoff, the crew reported faulty altimeters and avionics anomalies about four miles from the airport. The pilot initially engaged autopilot but disengaged it while transferring control to the right seat at about 4,500 feet. Radio traffic indicated the crew discussed extending gear, though indicators appeared dark.

The aircraft turned back after reaching a maximum altitude of about 4,300 feet, flying 11 miles from departure before impacting ground obstacles short of Runway 28. Weather conditions deteriorated to heavy drizzle with 1,200-foot ceilings. No evidence of engine failure or structural breakup was initially found, though avionics data were lost before impact. The CVR audio degraded, possibly from an electrical issue during the final minutes.

A final report is expected in about one year. The incident underscores ongoing safety concerns regarding crew qualifications and instrument reliability in Part 91 business aviation operations.