PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The National Transportation Safety Board arrived Tuesday to begin investigations at a Maine airport where a business jet crashed during takeoff, killing all six people on board.
The Paris-bound Bombardier Challenger 600 flipped over and burned on takeoff at Bangor International Airport around 7:45 p.m. Sunday night as a massive winter storm was beginning to reach the area. It remains unclear if the weather or cold played a role in the crash.
Experts suggest that questions regarding ice accumulating on the wings may be a focal point of the NTSB's investigation, as this has caused significant issues for this aircraft model in the past. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that the flight had ended under unknown circumstances, resulting in a fire upon landing.
The crash victims include a pilot and an event planner
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Maine is actively working to identify the victims. Among those confirmed dead is Shawna Collins, 53, a long-time employee at Lakewood Church in Houston.
Collins, described as a devoted family member and skilled event planner, leaves behind a legacy of spectacular gatherings she organized across various locations. The plane was also carrying Jacob Hosmer, a 47-year-old licensed flight instructor and the managing member of Platinum Skies Aviation LLC.
Bangor International Airport serves as a critical refueling stop for private jets en route to Europe, making this tragic accident particularly noted due to its international implications. Investigators expect to release a preliminary report detailing the crash in about a month, but comprehensive conclusions may take over a year.
History of icing problems with these planes
Aviation experts have highlighted that the Bombardier Challenger 600 has a documented history of icing problems on takeoff, which can lead to severe accidents. Investigators will be closely examining weather conditions and previous incidents as part of the investigation.
