Tragic Jet Crash in Bangor Amidst Winter Storm

Sat Jan 31 2026 17:30:42 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A Bombardier Challenger 600 tragically crashed during takeoff at Bangor International Airport, leading to a fire and urgent investigations amid the snowstorm that's wreaking havoc across the eastern United States.

A Bombardier Challenger 600 carrying eight people flipped and caught fire trying to take off during a severe winter storm at Bangor International Airport. The incident, which occurred around 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, prompted investigations by the FAA and NTSB. The airport was closed following the crash, as the region dealt with significant snowfall and broader travel disruptions across the U.S.

BANGOR, Maine (Flux Daily) — A Bombardier Challenger 600 carrying eight individuals tragically flipped over and caught fire during takeoff from Bangor International Airport as a winter storm blanketed the area with snow.

The accident occurred around 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, with federal authorities and air traffic controller recordings confirming the aircraft's disastrous fate. Initial reports indicated that there was no immediate information available regarding the conditions of those aboard.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched investigations into the incident, with the NTSB releasing a statement indicating the plane crashed upon its departure, resulting in a post-crash fire. A comprehensive assessment is expected after investigators arrive on scene in the coming days.

Air traffic controllers were heard in recordings detailing their grim observations, stating, Aircraft upside down. We have a passenger aircraft upside down, shortly after the plane was cleared for takeoff.

Bangor International Airport, located about 200 miles north of Boston, is known for providing direct flights to various cities including Orlando, Florida, Washington, D.C., and Charlotte, North Carolina. Following the crash, the airport was closed and remained so on Monday.

The incident occurred during an extensive winter storm affecting New England and considerable portions of the eastern United States. Bangor experienced ongoing snowfall, leading to a host of flight cancellations and significant travel disruptions nationwide.

During this massive storm, as reported, over 12,000 flights were canceled and nearly 20,000 were delayed throughout the country, with airports in Philadelphia, Washington, Baltimore, and New Jersey among those heavily impacted.

Aircraft models like the Bombardier Challenger 600, launched in 1980, are designed to accommodate between nine to eleven passengers. This aircraft was noted for being one of the first private jets with a “walk-about cabin,” making it a popular option for charter services.

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