This article is based on official releases and media briefings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

NTSB Releases Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released initial findings and visual assets regarding the fatal crash of a Cessna Citation 550 business jet in Statesville, North Carolina. The accident, which occurred on December 18, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all seven occupants, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family.

According to official updates from the agency, investigators have recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and identified key details regarding the aircraft’s final moments. The NTSB has also made high-resolution photos and b-roll footage of the accident site available to the public as part of their transparency efforts during the ongoing investigation (Case ID: WPR26MA063).

Crash Sequence and “Emergency Landing” Communication

The aircraft, identified by registration N257BW, departed Statesville Regional Airport (SVH) at approximately 10:05 AM EST, bound for Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ). NTSB investigators report that roughly 10 minutes after takeoff, the pilot initiated a return to the airport, executing a left turn to align with Runway 28.

During media briefings, NTSB officials revealed a critical piece of communication sent from inside the cabin. A passenger on board sent a text message to a family member shortly before impact.

“Emergency landing.”

, Text message sent by a passenger, confirmed by NTSB officials

The crash sequence ended when the aircraft struck approach lighting stanchions approximately 1,800 feet short of the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the jet collided with trees and the airport perimeter fence before coming to rest and catching fire. The debris field suggests the aircraft was configured for landing with landing gear down and flaps set, indicating it was “stable on approach” but flying too low.

Investigation Status and Site Analysis

NTSB Board Member Michael Graham and Investigator-in-Charge Dan Baker provided updates on the physical evidence recovered from the site. While the aircraft sustained extensive fire damage, investigators have identified the engines and flight control surfaces within the wreckage.

Recorder Recovery

The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) has been successfully recovered and transported to the NTSB laboratory in Washington, D.C., for analysis. Officials noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), as it was not required by regulation for this specific airframe, which was manufactured in 1981.

Weather Factors

At the time of the accident (approximately 10:15 AM EST), weather conditions at Statesville Regional Airport included low clouds, mist, and drizzle. Visibility was reported to be approximately 3 to 5 miles. These environmental factors will be a key component of the ongoing inquiry.

Visual Assets and Public Docket

To maintain transparency, the NTSB has published a collection of visual assets on the investigation’s official webpage. These materials include:

• Debris Field Footage: Panning shots showing the charred wreckage and the impact area near the runway threshold.
• Engine Documentation: Close-up images of investigators examining the Pratt & Whitney JT15D engines.
• Site Walkthroughs: Footage of the investigative team performing initial site assessments.

All future updates, including the preliminary report (expected within 30 days), the public docket, and the final report, will be posted to the same location.

AirPro News Analysis

The absence of a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on older business jets like this 1981 Cessna Citation 550 is not uncommon, but it places significantly more weight on the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and physical site analysis. Without digital flight data parameters, investigators must rely heavily on audio cues, radar tracks, and the physical position of actuators and switches in the wreckage to reconstruct the flight path. The fact that the aircraft was “stable on approach” but 1,800 feet short suggests a focus on altitude awareness, altimeter settings, or visual illusions caused by the reported mist and low clouds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who were the victims of the crash?
Authorities have confirmed seven fatalities. The victims include Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, pilot Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.

When will the cause of the crash be determined?
The NTSB typically releases a preliminary report within 30 days of the accident, which contains factual information but no probable cause. A final report, including the probable cause, usually takes 12 to 24 months to complete.

Was the airport controlled?
No. Statesville Regional Airport is a non-towered airport. Pilots use a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to coordinate their movements.

Where can I view the photos and b-roll?
The NTSB has hosted all visual assets on their official investigation webpage linked below.

Sources

• NTSB Investigation Page (WPR26MA063)
• NTSB Media Briefing

This article is based on an official press release from Honda Aircraft Company.

Honda Aircraft Company Unveils APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJet Fleet

Honda Aircraft Company has officially introduced the “APMG S” upgrade package, a new retrofit program designed to modernize the manufacturers‘ earlier aircraft models. Announced as the fleet approaches its tenth anniversary, this initiative allows owners of the original HondaJet (Classic) and the HondaJet APMG to install advanced avionics and performance features that were previously exclusive to the newer HondaJet Elite S model.

According to the company’s announcement, the upgrade is available immediately for installation at the Honda Aircraft Company Service Center in Greensboro, North Carolina, as well as through its authorized service center network. The package has already received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for U.S.-registered aircraft, with certification from other international regulatory bodies planned to follow.

Technical Enhancements and Performance Gains

The APMG S package focuses on bridging the gap between the earliest iterations of the HondaJet and the current production standards. The upgrade targets three primary areas: payload capacity, avionics processing, and pilot handling.

Increased Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)
One of the most significant operational changes included in the package is a 300-pound increase in Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW). In practical terms, this allows operators to carry approximately one additional passenger or significantly more fuel and baggage without compromising range. The company states that this upgrade directly addresses the evolving mission requirements of current owners.

Avionics and Safety Systems
The retrofit includes both hardware and software updates to the Garmin G3000 avionics suite. These updates are designed to deliver faster processing speeds and enable advanced flight deck features. A key safety addition is the Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS). According to Honda Aircraft Company, ASAS is engineered to reduce pilot workload and enhance safety during the landing rollout, particularly in challenging crosswind conditions.

Additionally, the upgrade introduces a new graphical interface for Weight and Balance calculations on the flight deck, streamlining pre-flight preparations for pilots.

Strategic Commitment to the Fleet

The introduction of the APMG S appears to be a move to protect the longevity and residual value of the HondaJet fleet. By offering a pathway for early adopters to upgrade their airframes to “Elite S” standards, the manufacturer is ensuring that older models remain competitive in the Very Light Jet (VLJ) market.

In the official press release, Amod Kelkar, Chief Commercial Officer of Honda Aircraft Company, emphasized the company’s dedication to its existing customer base:

“As we approach the tenth anniversary of our first HondaJet delivery, we are excited to provide our customers the opportunity to upgrade their aircraft with the advanced technology and performance of more recent iterations. The APMG S package brings the spirit of continuous improvement to our in-service fleet, ensuring that the HondaJet remains at the forefront of the light jet category.”

AirPro News Analysis

While the official release focuses on technical specifications, the strategic timing of this announcement is notable. The first HondaJet “Classic” models were delivered between 2015 and 2018. As these airframes approach the decade mark, they face potential obsolescence when compared to newer entrants like the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 or the Embraer Phenom 100EV.

By offering a retrofit option rather than forcing customers to purchase a new aircraft to gain these capabilities, Honda is likely aiming to prevent customer defection to competitors. This strategy aligns with a broader industry trend toward sustainability and lifecycle extension, where “retrofitting” is viewed as a more environmentally and financially responsible alternative to scrapping or replacing airframes. While specific pricing was not disclosed in the release, owners are directed to contact service centers for quotes, historical data suggests such upgrades offer a cost-effective alternative to trading up to a new $6 million-plus aircraft.

Availability and Implementation

Honda Aircraft Company has confirmed that the APMG S package is available for installation now. The upgrade is applicable to:

• HondaJet Classic: The original model delivered roughly between 2015 and 2018.
• HondaJet APMG: The first upgrade iteration delivered roughly between 2018 and 2019.

Owners interested in the upgrade can schedule installation at the factory service center in Greensboro, NC, or at authorized facilities worldwide. While FAA certification is complete, European operators and those in other jurisdictions will need to wait for subsequent regulatory approvals, which the company states are currently in planning.

Sources

• Honda Aircraft Company

This article is based on an official press release from PlaneSense, Inc. and CaptainJet.

PlaneSense and CaptainJet Launch Strategic Transatlantic Collaboration

PlaneSense, Inc., a leading fractional aircraft ownership program based in the United States, has announced a significant expansion of its international service capabilities through a new collaboration with CaptainJet, a European luxury charter sourcing provider. Announced on December 16, 2025, this partnership aims to provide seamless, reciprocal private travel solutions for clients on both sides of the Atlantic.

According to the official press release, the agreement allows PlaneSense shareowners to access a vast network of charter aircraft when traveling within Europe. Conversely, CaptainJet clients visiting the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean will gain access to the PlaneSense fleet, which consists of the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the Pilatus PC-24 jet. This move solidifies a growing alliance between PlaneSense and the broader Jetfly Group, CaptainJet’s affiliate, following an earlier partnership established in 2025.

Reciprocal Access for Global Travelers

The core of this collaboration is a reciprocal service agreement designed to simplify the complexities of international private aviation. For PlaneSense shareowners, the company has integrated a “PlaneSense Sourcing Solution” team that will coordinate directly with CaptainJet. This arrangement provides U.S. clients with access to CaptainJet’s network, which includes over 7,000 aircraft globally, ensuring availability even during high-demand periods in Europe.

For European travelers, the partnerships opens the door to the PlaneSense fleet. CaptainJet clients can now book flights on the Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft operated by PlaneSense. These aircraft are renowned for their short-field performance, allowing access to smaller regional airports that are often closer to final destinations than major hubs.

Strengthening the “Pilatus Alliance”

This collaboration builds upon a previous agreement between PlaneSense and Jetfly, a European fractional operator and affiliate of CaptainJet. Both PlaneSense and Jetfly utilize fleets heavily focused on Pilatus aircraft. By partnering with CaptainJet, PlaneSense extends its reach beyond the specific fractional fleet of Jetfly, offering its owners a broader range of charter options to suit various mission profiles that might fall outside the scope of the fractional fleet.

Executive Commentary

Leadership from both organizations emphasized the client-focused nature of the deal, highlighting the demand for a unified booking experience across continents.

George Antoniadis, President and CEO of PlaneSense, Inc., stated in the press release:

“Working with the CaptainJet team allows us to greatly expand our footprint and assist our valued clients with their global travel needs.”

Yves Roch, CEO of CaptainJet, echoed these sentiments, noting the quality of the U.S. operator’s fleet:

“We’re proud to collaborate with PlaneSense, providing clients with exceptional private flights on both sides of the Atlantic.”

Strategic Market Context

AirPro News Analysis

The Asset-Light Expansion Model
This collaboration represents a distinct strategic approach compared to other major players in the private-jets sector. While competitors such as NetJets and Flexjet have pursued “organic expansion” or “acquisition” models, spending significant capital to buy aircraft and obtain operating certificates in Europe, PlaneSense is effectively building a virtual global fleet. By partnering with CaptainJet and Jetfly, PlaneSense secures immediate European market access without the heavy infrastructure investment required to establish a standalone European division.

The Short-Runway Niche
A critical differentiator for this alliance is the specific capability of the aircraft involved. Both PlaneSense and the Jetfly Group specialize in Pilatus aircraft (PC-12 and PC-24). These aircraft possess unique short-field capabilities, allowing them to land on runways as short as 3,000 feet, including grass and dirt strips. This opens up access to exclusive destinations, such as Courchevel in the French Alps or smaller Caribbean islands, that are inaccessible to the larger jets typically flown by competitors like VistaJet or Wheels Up. This “adventure access” segment remains a defensible niche that this partnership strengthens.

2025 Industry Trends
The timing of this deal aligns with broader 2025 trends where high-net-worth individuals increasingly demand “one-call” solutions. The post-pandemic travel boom has occasionally strained charter inventory; by aligning with a major sourcing agent like CaptainJet, PlaneSense mitigates the risk of inventory shortages for its clients abroad. This ensures that U.S. owners are not left to navigate a fragmented European charter broker market on their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What aircraft will PlaneSense clients fly on in Europe?
Through CaptainJet, PlaneSense clients will have access to a sourcing network of over 7,000 aircraft, ranging from light jets to large-cabin aircraft, in addition to the Pilatus fleet available through the Jetfly affiliate partnership.

Can CaptainJet clients fly the PC-12 in the US?
Yes. The agreement specifically allows CaptainJet clients to book flights on the PlaneSense fleet, which includes the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the PC-24 light jet, known for their versatility and short-runway performance.

Is this a merger?
No. This is a strategic collaboration between two independent companies. PlaneSense remains a privately held U.S. company, while CaptainJet operates as a Swiss-based charter sourcing provider affiliated with the Jetfly Group.

Sources

• Business Wire (PlaneSense Press Release)