Private Jet Carrying Eight Crashes During Takeoff in Bangor, Maine

A business jet carrying eight people crashed while attempting to depart Bangor International Airport on Sunday night, January 25, amid a severe winter storm. The aircraft, identified as a Bombardier Challenger 650, went down shortly before 8:00 PM ET.

Federal investigators from the FAA and NTSB have launched a joint inquiry into the Sunday night crash.

Incident Profile: N10KJ

In response to the crash, airport authorities issued a statement on Facebook:

“An incident at the airport is under investigation. First responders are on scene and assessing the situation. Please avoid the airport at this time.”

The following table summarizes the verified details of the accident based on preliminary reports and airport records:

Weather and Environmental Factors

The crash coincided with a severe winter storm impacting the Northeastern United States. At the time of the takeoff attempt, local meteorological data indicated extreme conditions that likely hampered operations:

• Temperature: A frigid 2°F (-16°C).
• Visibility: Restricted to 3/4 of a mile due to light snowfall.
• Atmospheric Conditions: Ongoing subfreezing temperatures and poor visibility across Penobscot County.

Takeoff Sequence and Eyewitness Reports

While the airport is known for its extensive runways, often used for transatlantic refueling, witnesses described a catastrophic failure during the aircraft's departure. According to accounts from the scene, the jet attempted to lift off shortly after another plane had landed.

Observers noted that the Challenger 650 began "shuttering" almost immediately after leaving the ground. The aircraft then reportedly rolled onto its roof and ignited upon impact. First responders were on the scene within minutes, though the Houston-based company that owns the jet has yet to release a formal statement.

Regional Significance

Bangor International Airport serves as a critical travel hub for northern Maine and is situated approximately 50 miles from the Canadian border. Its role as a strategic gateway means the temporary closure of its runways can have a significant ripple effect on both regional travel and international refueling stops.