PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has begun its investigation into a tragic incident at Bangor International Airport where a Bombardier Challenger 600 business jet crashed during takeoff, resulting in the deaths of all six individuals on board.
The plane was bound for Paris when it flipped over and ignited at approximately 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, coinciding with the onset of a severe winter storm affecting the region. Investigators are still working to ascertain whether the inclement weather or ice accumulation on the wings played a role in the crash.
Preliminary statements from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirm that six individuals — including four passengers and two crew members — perished in the incident. The aircraft reportedly crashed under unclear circumstances, coming to rest inverted and ablaze.
The crash victims include a pilot and an event planner
Among those identified is Shawna Collins, 53, a dedicated employee of Lakewood Church in Houston, known for her vibrant personality and expertise in event planning. Her work included organizing events across the globe, and she was also involved in planning her daughter's upcoming wedding.
Jacob Hosmer, 47, the pilot and managing member of Platinum Skies Aviation LLC, has also been recognized. The firm linked to the flight's registration has yet to release details about the remaining passengers.
The Bangor airport is a strategic location for refueling private jets en route to Europe and the crash has raised concerns regarding icing issues historically associated with the Bombardier Challenger 600 model. Experts emphasize that ice on the wings, even in small amounts, can halt successful takeoff and might have been a decisive factor.
As the investigation proceeds, the NTSB plans to release an initial report within a month, while a final report could take over a year. Their probe will focus on maintaining rigorous standards for aircraft preparation, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
