Passenger Plane Flips Upside Down in Bangor, Maine Airspace
A serious incident occurred at Bangor International Airport in Maine when a Bombardier Challenger 600 business jet flipped upside down during takeoff amid a winter storm. The event transpired around 7:45 p.m. on a Sunday evening, involving a total of eight individuals on board.
Details of the Incident
According to federal authorities, the aircraft encountered problems shortly after clearance for takeoff. An air traffic control recording noted a controller describing the situation: “Aircraft upside down. We have a passenger aircraft upside down.” This statement was made approximately 45 seconds after the jet had been authorized to depart.
Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating the accident. Preliminary reports indicate the plane crashed shortly after departure and experienced a subsequent fire on the runway. The NTSB will release further information after investigators have assessed the scene.
Weather Conditions Impacting Air Travel
- The incident occurred during a massive winter storm affecting much of New England and the eastern United States.
- Bangor was experiencing continuous snowfall throughout that Sunday, complicating the airport’s operations.
- On the same day, around 12,000 flights were canceled and close to 20,000 were delayed nationwide due to weather-related disruptions.
Airport Status
Bangor International Airport was closed immediately following the crash and remained shut down the following Monday. The airport typically provides direct flights to various cities, including Orlando, Washington, D.C., and Charlotte.
About the Bombardier Challenger 600
The Bombardier Challenger 600, introduced in 1980, is notable for being the first private jet to feature a “walk-about cabin” design. This wide-bodied business jet usually accommodates nine to eleven passengers and remains a popular choice in charter flight services today.
As this investigation progresses, insights into the technical and environmental factors contributing to the mishap will be pivotal for improving safety measures in aviation.
