According to the National Transportation Safety Board, former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle was not piloting the plane that crashed last month, resulting in his death and six others. The report clarifies that while an experienced pilot was at the controls, no one else on board was qualified as a copilot, which may have contributed to the accident near Statesville Regional Airport.

Preliminary investigations revealed issues with the aircraft's gauges before the crash. The plane, a Cessna C550, experienced problems with its altimeter and other instruments during the flight. The lack of a qualified copilot is being examined as a potential factor in the accident. The NTSB is still analyzing the cockpit voice recorder data.

The accident occurred as the plane attempted to return to the airport shortly after takeoff. Biffle's wife and two children were among those killed in the crash. Biffle, a celebrated NASCAR driver, had a successful career with over 50 race victories. The NTSB continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

With the investigation ongoing, the aviation community awaits further details to understand the events leading up to the tragic accident. The final report will likely delve deeper into the mechanical issues and pilot qualifications. The lack of a qualified copilot may have been a key factor in the crash. The NASCAR community mourns the loss of a legend and his family.