Breaking News: Bangor Plane Crash: 6 Dead, 2 Surviors

ByKristin Malone
A man in a dark suit speaks at a podium with multiple microphones from news outlets. The background is blurred, suggesting an indoor setting. The FAA is still investigation the plane crash at Bangor International Airport.

Bangor International Airport shut down after a Bombardier Challenger 600 crashed on Jan. 25, 2026, killing six of the eight people onboard and leaving one seriously injured. The crash happened shortly after 7:45 p.m. during a severe winter storm, triggering widespread flight cancellations and diversions. The FAA confirmed the airport’s closure would last until at least noon on January 26, as the crash has garnered attention due to its impact on regional air travel.

Bangor Plane Crash: What Happened

A Bombardier Challenger 600 crashed at approximately 7:45 p.m. on Sunday evening at Bangor International Airport. Official reports from the FAA indicate eight people were aboard the aircraft at the time of the incident. According to dispatcher calls and air traffic control recordings obtained via LiveATC.net, the aircraft ended up upside down shortly after takeoff from Runway 33. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that the aircraft subsequently caught fire.

Key Details

  • Aircraft: Bombardier Challenger 600, registered to a limited liability corporation in Houston.
  • Passengers: Eight people on board, which includes three crew members and five passengers.
  • Conditions: Heavy snow and low visibility were reported at the time of the crash. Audio recordings picked up discussions about deicing and visibility in the moments before the crash.
  • Status: Six people are reported dead, and two survived.

Timeline of Events

  • 7:43 p.m.: Controller clears pilot for takeoff on Runway 33.
  • 7:45 p.m.: Crash occurs. A controller radios, “All traffic is stopped on the field! All traffic is stopped on the field!”
  • 7:46 p.m.: Controller confirms, “Aircraft upside down. We have a passenger aircraft upside down.”
  • Overnight: Emergency crews work through the night; airport remains closed.

Reactions

What People Are Sharing About the Bangor Crash

The crash rapidly drew the attention of local residents and travelers as updates began circulating across social media.

  • Airport Officials: Bangor International Airport activated its Emergency Operations Center. The public is asked to stay away from the area as emergency crews work on the airfield.
  • Travelers: Passengers dealing with cancellations and diversions were advised to contact their airlines for rebooking options.
  • Local Residents: People in the area observed a significant police presence, with officers shutting down access to nearby Griffin Road.
  • Social Media: Early posts circulated widely, including footage shared by SentDefender showing emergency vehicles responding on the airfield.

What Happens Next

The focus is now on the investigation itself and the effort to reopen the airfield.

Short-Term Expectations

The FAA and NTSB are leading the investigation. However, NTSB investigators have faced delays reaching the site due to the ongoing winter storm and may not arrive for another 24 to 48 hours. A media briefing took place at 10 a.m. Monday on the second floor of the Domestic Terminal. According to a post on Bangor International Airport’s Facebook, the airport will remain closed until Tuesday.

Long-Term Outlook

Investigators will examine the wreckage and review the flight data recorders to pinpoint what caused the crash, with particular attention on the weather conditions and any deicing issues.

This remains an active and unfolding situation, and additional details are expected after the scheduled media briefing. We’ll continue tracking new details regarding the condition of the passengers and the reopening of the airport as they emerge.

Related Stories

  • Full Timeline of Bangor Airport Incident
  • Update on Winter Storm Impacts in Maine
  • Trending Story: NTSB Investigation Procedures Explained

FAQ SECTION

Q: What happened?
A: A Bombardier Challenger 600 private jet crashed and flipped upside down during takeoff at Bangor International Airport on Sunday night.

Q: When will more info be released?
A: A media briefing took place Monday morning.

Q: Who confirmed the news?
A: The FAA and local airport officials confirmed the crash and the number of people on board.

Q: Why is this significant?
A: It involves a private jet carrying eight people crashing during severe winter weather, leading to a complete shutdown of a major regional airport.

Kristin Malone is a freelance journalist specializing in Science & Environment, Health, and True Crime reporting. She is dedicated to delivering accurate, well-researched coverage that translates complex issues into clear, accessible reporting. Her work explores environmental challenges, public health developments, and investigative pieces that bring depth and precision to crime and justice. Kristin’s approach is grounded in thorough fact-checking and a commitment to integrity, ensuring readers receive trusted information on topics that matter most.