Greg Biffle, a beloved figure in NASCAR history, shocked the motorsport world with an unexpected and tragic end in December 2025. The legendary driver’s death in a private jet crash has prompted many questions: When did he retire? Who was flying the plane? What actually happened? Here’s the full story.
When Did Greg Biffle Retire from Racing?
Greg Biffle, born on December 23, 1969, carved out a remarkable career in professional stock car racing. He debuted in NASCAR’s premier series in the early 2000s, quickly establishing himself as one of the sport’s most consistent competitors. Biffle won 19 NASCAR Cup Series races, and achieved championships in both the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and Busch (Xfinity) Series — a rare and respected accomplishment.
Although Biffle stepped back from full-time competition after the 2016 season, he continued to make occasional starts in other series — including part-time races in 2022 and 2025 — showing his enduring passion for racing even after effectively ending his full-time career.
Who Was Flying the Plane?
On December 18, 2025, a tragic accident occurred at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina involving a Cessna C550 (Citation II) business jet registered to a company associated with Greg Biffle.
The plane was owned by GB Aviation Leasing LLC, tied to Biffle. FAA records show that Biffle had recently earned his private pilot’s license and was certified to fly multi-engine aircraft. However, authorities have not yet confirmed whether he was at the controls during the final flight. There were at least two certified pilots aboard, and official investigation is ongoing.
Reports from family and friends indicate that Biffle, his wife Cristina, and their two children were aboard the flight, along with other travelers and at least one professional pilot.
What Happened to the Plane?
Flight Details
The private jet took off from Statesville Regional Airport just before 10:15 a.m. local time. Shortly after departure, it turned back toward the airport and attempted to land moments later.
According to flight data and eyewitness reports:
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The aircraft did not climb above approximately 2,000 feet before returning.
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It crashed near the runway while attempting to land, striking the ground and erupting into a large fireball.
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All seven people on board were killed — including Biffle, his family, and others identified by relatives.
Weather & Investigation
Weather at the time included drizzle and low clouds, though officials have not yet confirmed whether weather played a direct role.
Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched formal investigations into the crash. Early reports suggest the aircraft was attempting to return to land, but the exact cause — mechanical, weather, or human factors — remains under review.
Legacy and Community Reaction
Greg Biffle’s death at age 55 has reverberated through the racing world. Fans and fellow drivers remember him not only for his racing accomplishments — such as being named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers — but also for his commitment to humanitarian causes, including aviation-based relief efforts during natural disasters.
Tributes continue to pour in from across the sports and aviation communities, celebrating a life defined by skill, generosity, and a love of speed both on and off the track.
In Summary
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Retirement: Biffle stepped back from full-time NASCAR racing after 2016 but remained active in occasional events afterward.
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Plane Flight: The Cessna C550 belonged to Biffle’s aviation company; multiple pilots were aboard, but it’s currently unclear who was flying during the crash.
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Crash Details: The plane crashed while returning to Statesville Regional Airport and burst into flames, killing all occupants. Authorities are investigating the cause.
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