A private jet crash in Bangor, Maine has left at least six people dead after a Bombardier CL-650 aircraft went down shortly after takeoff from Bangor International Airport on Saturday evening, Jan. 25, according to local, state, and federal authorities.
The tragic incident has triggered a federal investigation as officials work to determine what caused the aircraft to crash and burst into flames moments after departure.
What happened in the private jet crash in Bangor, Maine?
The fiery crash occurred at approximately 7:45 p.m. local time as the private jet was taking off from Bangor International Airport in northern Maine. According to airport officials and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aircraft crashed under currently unknown circumstances, came to rest upside down, and caught fire shortly after impact.
Emergency responders, including the Bangor Fire Department, arrived at the scene in under one minute, but no survivors were found.
How many people died in the Bangor, Maine private jet crash?
Officials confirmed that six people were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash, and all are presumed deceased.
“No one from the incident was transported to the hospital, and all on the flight are presumed to be deceased,”
— Joint statement from Bangor International Airport and Bangor Police Department
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims, pending positive identification.
Confusion over initial FAA report
An earlier preliminary FAA report initially listed eight people on board, stating that seven died and one person — identified as the pilot — suffered serious injuries. However, FAA Public Affairs Specialist Steve Kulm clarified that preliminary reports are always subject to change, and referred the final confirmation to local officials and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
What type of aircraft was involved?
The NTSB identified the plane as a Bombardier CL-650, previously known as the Bombardier CL-600. FAA records show that the aircraft entered service in April 2020.
According to investigators, the aircraft:
- Crashed shortly after departure
- Came to rest inverted
- Caught fire on impact
Federal teams have been unable to immediately access the crash site due to heavy snow and ice caused by a winter storm sweeping through the region.
Bangor International Airport remains closed
Bangor International Airport remains closed until further notice, airport director Jose Saavedra confirmed during a news conference on Jan. 26.
Saavedra said flights had been taking off and landing normally shortly before the crash but declined to provide details on the aircraft’s destination or passengers.
“We are waiting for guidance and support from our federal partners before we can make any additional statements,”
— Jose Saavedra, Airport Director
Where was the plane going?
The destination of the flight has not been officially confirmed. However, data from the aviation-tracking website FlightRadar24 showed the aircraft had arrived earlier from Houston.
FAA records indicate the plane’s registered owner shares a Houston address with Arnold & Itkin, a well-known personal injury law firm. Investigators have not confirmed whether the firm was directly connected to the flight.
NTSB investigation delayed by weather
NTSB spokesperson Sarah Taylor Sulick said it may take at least another day before investigators can reach the crash site due to severe weather conditions.
“The weather is adding additional time to our expected arrival,”
— Sarah Taylor Sulick, NTSB
Once on scene, investigators will examine:
- Flight data and aircraft systems
- Weather conditions at takeoff
- Pilot actions and air traffic communications
- Possible mechanical failure
What we know so far
✔ At least 6 people killed
✔ Aircraft: Bombardier CL-650
✔ Crash occurred during takeoff
✔ Airport remains closed
✔ Federal investigation ongoing
Conclusion
The private jet crash in Bangor, Maine is one of the deadliest aviation incidents in the state in recent years. As federal investigators continue their work, authorities are urging patience while respecting the privacy of the victims’ families.
More updates are expected once investigators reach the crash site and complete their preliminary findings.
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