Post by : Meena Ariff

A private aircraft carrying eight people crashed during takeoff Sunday evening at Bangor International Airport, authorities confirmed. The Bombardier Challenger 600, a popular business jet, went down around 7:45 p.m. local time. As of now, no official updates have been provided regarding the condition of those aboard. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have opened a joint investigation to determine the cause of the accident.

The crash occurred amid a widespread and intense winter storm that has swept across New England and much of the eastern United States. Bangor and the surrounding regions experienced continuous snowfall throughout Sunday, creating challenging conditions for travel both in the air and on the ground. Emergency response teams were dispatched immediately to the scene, and the airport was temporarily closed following the incident involving the single aircraft attempting to depart.

Bangor International Airport serves as an important regional gateway with direct flights connecting to cities such as Orlando, Florida; Washington, D.C.; and Charlotte, North Carolina. Situated approximately 200 miles north of Boston, the airport is a critical transportation hub for Maine and surrounding areas.

The ongoing winter storm has caused major disruptions nationwide, with thousands of flights canceled or delayed. On Sunday alone, nearly 12,000 flights were canceled across the United States, while almost 20,000 others faced delays, according to flight tracking services. Airports in major cities including Philadelphia, Washington, Baltimore, New York, and regions across North Carolina and New Jersey were significantly affected by the adverse weather.

The Bombardier Challenger 600, first introduced in 1980, is a widely recognized business jet known for its spacious “walk-about cabin” and ability to accommodate between nine and eleven passengers. It remains a preferred aircraft for private charters and corporate travel due to its comfort and range.

At this time, authorities continue their investigation into the crash. Emergency teams are on site to provide aid and assess the overall situation. Officials have urged the public to avoid the area to facilitate ongoing rescue and investigative operations.

This incident highlights the risks associated with air travel during severe weather events, and further details are expected as the investigation progresses.

#Global News