A Bombardier Challenger 650 business jet carrying eight individuals crashed shortly after takeoff from Bangor International Airport in Maine on Sunday evening, January 25, amid deteriorating winter weather conditions. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. local time, prompting an immediate and extensive emergency response that led to the temporary closure of the airport.
Emergency Response Activated at Crash Site
Airport authorities swiftly activated an emergency operations center to coordinate rescue efforts as first responders, including fire and rescue teams, worked at the scene for several hours. The City of Bangor and airport officials confirmed that emergency crews remained actively engaged at the crash site, with operations expected to continue for an extended period before additional details could be released.
All arrivals and departures were halted overnight as the airport was shut down, allowing emergency vehicles unrestricted access across the airfield while authorities secured the area. The number and severity of injuries among those on board have not yet been confirmed, according to sources briefed on the incident.
Weather Conditions and Air Traffic Control Audio
The crash took place as a significant snowstorm moved through the Northeastern United States, bringing below-freezing temperatures, light snowfall, and reduced visibility to the region. Audio recordings from air traffic control, obtained from LiveATC.net, reveal discussions about low visibility and aircraft deicing procedures shortly before the jet was cleared for takeoff on Runway 33.
Approximately two minutes after clearance, a controller urgently radioed, "All traffic is stopped on the field! All traffic is stopped on the field!" Another voice soon followed, stating, "Aircraft upside down. We have a passenger aircraft upside down." This indicates the severity of the crash as it unfolded during challenging weather conditions.
Federal Investigation Launched
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated a joint investigation into the crash. Federal records show the aircraft was registered to a limited liability corporation based in Houston, Texas. Air traffic controllers later indicated there were three crew members and possibly five passengers on board the jet.
Authorities have stated that further updates will be provided once investigators complete their initial assessments at the scene. The investigation will likely focus on factors such as weather conditions, pilot decisions, and aircraft maintenance, given the timing of the crash shortly after takeoff amid a winter storm.
Impact on Aviation and Safety Protocols
This incident highlights the critical importance of aviation safety protocols during adverse weather conditions. The crash raises questions about takeoff clearances and deicing procedures in winter storms, which will be scrutinized as part of the federal investigation. Such events often lead to reviews of operational guidelines to enhance safety measures at airports nationwide.
As rescue and investigation efforts continue, the aviation community and local residents await more information on the cause of the crash and the condition of those on board. The response underscores the coordinated efforts between local emergency services and federal agencies in managing aviation accidents.
