private jet crash
A Bombardier Challenger 600 crashed during takeoff at Bangor International Airport on Jan. 25, 2026, killing 8 people on board. The FAA and NTSB are investigating the incident amid heavy snowfall and poor visibility.
At a Glance
- A Bombardier Challenger 600 crashed during takeoff at Bangor International Airport.
- Eight people were aboard, all fatalities.
- The crash occurred amid heavy snowfall, with up to 15 inches of snow in the region.
- Jan. 27 weather warnings are expected to continue.
- The FAA and NTSB are leading the investigation.
Crash Details
The private jet, registered to a Houston-based law firm associated with Arnold & Itkin, was flying from Texas to Maine. At approximately 7:45 p.m. local time, the aircraft failed to lift off and collided with the runway, catching fire. Images from the scene show the jet upside down, surrounded by emergency responders.
Key Facts
- 8 passengers and crew
- Model: Bombardier Challenger 600
- Registration: Houston-based law firm
- Flight origin: Texas
- Time of crash: 7:45 p.m.
Weather Conditions
Heavy snow and low visibility plagued the airport during the incident. Weather reports indicated up to 15 inches of snow in some areas, creating hazardous conditions. The FAA noted that at takeoff the jet had at least a mile of visibility and full runway visibility, but snow began falling as the plane attempted departure.
Emergency Response
Bangor International Airport closed the airfield immediately. “Emergency services are responding to an incident involving an aircraft at BIA that occurred at approximately 7:45 p.m. on Sunday,” BIA said in a statement. First responders remain on scene, with an Emergency Operations Center established.
Response Actions
- Airport closure and public area closure
- Deployment of fire suppression teams
- Air traffic control rerouted nearby flights
- Coordination with local fire and police departments
Investigation
Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are conducting investigations. The FAA confirmed that the jet was registered to a Houston-based law firm, and the NTSB has opened an inquiry into the cause of the crash. Neither agency responded immediately to a request for further comment.
Impact on Travel
The crash prompted flight cancellations and advisories. The FAA urged passengers to contact airlines for information on travel disruptions. The incident also led to heightened scrutiny of winter weather protocols at regional airports.
Timeline of Events
| Date & Time | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan. 25, 2026, 7:45 p.m. | Plane crashes during takeoff |
| Jan. 25, 2026, shortly after | Airport closed; emergency response deployed |
| Jan. 25, 2026, evening | Fire suppression and rescue operations |
| Jan. 26, 2026 | FAA and NTSB announce investigations |
| Jan. 27, 2026 | Weather warnings expected to continue |
What We Know So Far
- The jet was a Bombardier Challenger 600.
- Eight people were on board, all fatalities.
- The crash occurred amid heavy snowfall, with up to 15 inches of snow in the area.
- The FAA and NTSB are investigating the incident.
- Weather warnings are in effect until Jan. 27.
The tragedy underscores the risks of operating aircraft in severe winter conditions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as the investigation progresses.
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Sources told News Of Los Angeles that the crash was a significant event, with emergency services still on scene and investigations underway.
