Private Jet Crashes on Takeoff at Bangor Airport Amid Severe US Winter Storm
A private aircraft carrying eight individuals crashed on takeoff at Bangor International Airport in Maine on Sunday night, as a severe winter storm swept across much of the United States, causing significant travel chaos and fatalities. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the incident, which occurred at approximately 7:45 pm, with no immediate details on the conditions of those onboard.
Investigation and Immediate Response
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the crash of the Bombardier Challenger 600 aircraft. Emergency crews were swiftly dispatched to the scene, and the airport was temporarily closed following what officials described as an incident involving a single departing aircraft. Bangor had experienced steady snowfall throughout Sunday, part of a broader weather system affecting New England and numerous other regions.
Impact of the Winter Storm Across the US
The crash coincided with a massive winter storm that has gripped the eastern half of the United States over the weekend. The storm dumped sleet, freezing rain, and snow, leading to widespread disruptions:
- At least 14 fatalities have been reported in states including Texas, New York City, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Kansas.
- Hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses in the southeast lost power due to the severe conditions.
- Air and road traffic were heavily halted, with commercial flights particularly affected.
Widespread Flight Cancellations and Delays
According to FlightAware.com, the storm caused approximately 12,000 flight cancellations and nearly 20,000 delays on Sunday alone. Major airports in Philadelphia, Washington, Baltimore, North Carolina, New York, and New Jersey were among those experiencing significant disruptions, compounding the challenges faced by travellers nationwide.
Details on the Aircraft and Airport
The Bombardier Challenger 600 is a wide-bodied business jet designed for nine to 11 passengers. Launched in 1980, it was the first private jet to feature a walk-about cabin and remains a popular choice for charter services. Bangor International Airport, located about 200 miles north of Boston, offers direct flights to cities such as Orlando, Florida; Washington DC; and Charlotte, North Carolina, serving as a key transportation hub in the region.
As authorities continue their probe into the crash, the incident underscores the dangers posed by extreme weather events to aviation safety and infrastructure.
