At least seven people were killed and one person was seriously injured after a private jet crashed during a snowstorm at Bangor International Airport in Maine, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The crash happened on Sunday evening as a powerful winter storm swept across New England and much of the United States.
What happened during takeoff
The aircraft, a Bombardier Challenger 600, was carrying eight people when it crashed shortly after attempting to take off around 7:45 p.m. Federal authorities said the jet flipped over and caught fire on the airfield. The FAA later confirmed that seven people died, while one crew member survived with serious injuries. According to the FAA, the aircraft “crashed under unknown circumstances on departure, came to rest inverted, and caught fire.
Snowfall was heavy at the time of the crash, and visibility was very low. Bangor was under a winter storm warning, with temperatures well below freezing. “Certainly, the weather is challenging,” Bangor Police Sgt. Jeremy Brock told WCSH, at the time of the crash. Air traffic control audio from LiveATC.net captured pilots and controllers discussing low visibility and de-icing shortly before the crash.
Air traffic control audio after the crash
Minutes before the incident, a controller cleared the jet for takeoff on Runway 33. Nearly two minutes later, a controller urgently said, “All traffic is stopped on the field! All traffic is stopped on the field!” Soon after, another controller said, “Aircraft upside down. We have a passenger aircraft upside down.” Emergency vehicles were then allowed onto the airfield, and the airport was shut down.
Airport closure and flight disruptions
Bangor International Airport, located about 200 miles north of Boston, closed immediately after the crash. The airport later announced it would remain closed until at least 12 p.m. on Wednesday. Several airlines operate from the airport, including Allegiant, American, Breeze, Delta and United Airlines.
Investigation underway
Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident. The NTSB said preliminary information shows the plane crashed shortly after departure and experienced a post-crash fire. The agency added that it would not provide further details until investigators reach the site. Weather conditions have delayed travel for investigators, though airport officials said the NTSB expects a team to arrive later.
Federal records show the aircraft involved was a Bombardier Challenger 650 business jet registered to a limited liability company based in Houston. Airport officials said no further details would be released until investigators complete their initial work.