Tragic Crash at Bangor International Airport
A private aircraft carrying eight people crashed on takeoff Sunday night at Maine's Bangor International Airport (BGR), leading to the deaths of seven individuals and seriously injuring one crew member. The incident occurred around 7:45 p.m. ET amidst a significant winter storm that brought steady snowfall to the region.
The aircraft involved was identified as a Bombardier Challenger 600 business jet. Reports indicate the plane ended up upside down and subsequently caught fire shortly after its departure.
Investigation Underway
Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched investigations into the crash. NTSB investigators were expected to arrive at the scene on Monday to begin their detailed examination. Airport Director Jose Saavedra confirmed that local officials are awaiting guidance from federal partners before releasing further information.
Preliminary information from the NTSB suggests the plane crashed upon departure and experienced a post-crash fire. An audio recording from air traffic controllers captured a chilling moment approximately 45 seconds after the plane was cleared for takeoff, with a controller stating, 'Aircraft upside down. We have a passenger aircraft upside down.'
Airport Closure and Aircraft Details
Following the crash, Bangor International Airport was closed and was expected to remain shut down for at least another 24 hours. The private jet was registered to KTKJ Challenger LLC, a company based in Houston, Texas. Some sources have linked this entity to the personal injury law firm Arnold & Itkin Trial Lawyers, also located in Houston.
The Bombardier Challenger 600 is a wide-bodied business jet typically configured for nine to eleven passengers. The crash marks a tragic event for the airport and the aviation community, particularly given the challenging weather conditions at the time of the incident.
5 Comments
Comandante
It's truly heartbreaking for the victims and their families, but you have to wonder about the decision to fly in such severe weather conditions. Pilots are highly trained, but limits exist.
Bella Ciao
Such a devastating loss. Thinking of everyone impacted.
Mariposa
Aviation safety is paramount; investigations like this are crucial.
Coccinella
While the investigation is crucial for understanding what went wrong, it also highlights the inherent dangers of aviation, especially with private charters. There's a fine line between convenience and safety.
ZmeeLove
This just confirms my fear of flying, especially in bad weather.