Investigation Uncovers Critical Safety Lapses in North Carolina Accident
A preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board into the December 18, 2026, crash of a Cessna Citation II in North Carolina has revealed critical safety lapses. The right-seat occupant, the pilot’s adult son, was not qualified to serve as second-in-command, and the left-seat pilot was not qualified to fly the jet without another pilot. The accident, which killed seven people, occurred during a personal flight from Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina to Sarasota, Florida. The NTSB’s investigation found discussions among the crew about several anomalies before and after departure, including issues with the thrust reverser indicator light and left engine power. The final report is expected to be issued in about a year, according to AeroTime.