Darkness descended on Bangor International Airport Sunday night as a private jet, originating from Texas, attempted takeoff. Moments later, the Bombardier Challenger 600 crashed, a jarring event unfolding amidst a fierce snowstorm sweeping across the East Coast.
Eight souls were aboard the aircraft, their fate initially unknown as first responders raced to the scene. The plane, registered to a Houston-based entity linked to a prominent personal injury law firm, had recently arrived from the Lone Star State.
The Challenger 600, a spacious business jet known for its innovative “walk-about cabin” design introduced in 1980, lay overturned, smoke billowing into the frigid night air. Witnesses described full visibility on the runway just before the impact, adding a layer of mystery to the unfolding tragedy.
An Emergency Operations Center was immediately established, coordinating a massive response from multiple fire departments and the 101st Maine Air National Guard. Crews from a dozen surrounding towns converged on the airport, bracing for a long night of intensive work.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board launched a full investigation, meticulously examining the wreckage and flight data. Records indicate the jet was relatively new, entering service in April 2020.
As Monday morning dawned, Bangor International Airport remained closed, a ripple effect of cancellations and diversions disrupting travel plans across the region. The scene remained active, a somber testament to the night’s harrowing events.
Authorities cautioned that gathering further information would take time, emphasizing the complexity of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation. The focus remained on securing the site and understanding the circumstances that led to this devastating crash.
