Private Jet Carrying Eight People Crashes at Bangor Airport Amid Severe Winter Storm
A privately operated Bombardier Challenger 650 aircraft carrying eight occupants crashed shortly after take-off from Bangor International Airport in Maine on Sunday evening, according to official statements from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The incident occurred as a massive winter snowstorm swept across the northeastern United States, creating hazardous flying conditions.
Emergency Response and Airport Closure
Airport officials confirmed to CNN that emergency services responded to the crash scene at approximately 7:45 pm Eastern Time. Following the incident, the airport was temporarily closed to all air traffic as rescue and recovery operations commenced. The severity of injuries sustained by those on board remains unclear at this time, according to a source briefed on the incident who spoke with CNN.
Investigation Launched by Federal Authorities
The Federal Aviation Administration has announced that both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will conduct a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. This investigation will examine multiple factors including weather conditions, aircraft performance, and operational procedures.
Weather Conditions at Time of Crash
The accident occurred as Maine experienced severe winter weather conditions with temperatures well below freezing. Light snowfall at the time significantly reduced visibility, creating challenging conditions for aviation operations. The region was under the influence of a major snowstorm moving across the northeastern United States, which may have contributed to the accident.
Aircraft Registration Details
Federal aviation records indicate that the Bombardier Challenger 650 aircraft involved in the crash is registered to a limited liability company based in Houston, Texas. The specific identity of the company and the purpose of the flight have not been disclosed by authorities at this time.
Ongoing Developments
As emergency crews continue their work at the crash site, additional details are expected to emerge in the coming hours and days. The investigation by federal authorities will likely take several months to complete as they gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze flight data. This incident highlights the challenges of aviation operations during extreme winter weather conditions.
