Six people were killed Sunday night when a private jet crashed during takeoff at Bangor International Airport in Maine, an airport frequently used by residents of Charlotte County because of its proximity to the New Brunswick border.
According to multiple Maine news outlets, the aircraft was travelling from Houston, Texas, to Paris, France, and had stopped in Bangor to refuel amid a winter storm affecting much of the region. U.S. federal aviation officials have confirmed that all six people on board the aircraft died in the crash.
Emergency crews responded to the scene late Sunday evening after reports of a single aircraft incident on the airport runway. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims, pending notification of next of kin.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Investigators are expected to examine weather conditions, aircraft performance, and runway conditions as part of their inquiry. A preliminary report is anticipated within 30 days, though a full investigation could take several months. Officials have not yet said whether weather was a contributing factor.
Bangor International Airport remains closed following the crash, with officials indicating it will not reopen until at least Thursday, Jan. 29. Numerous flights have been cancelled or diverted as a result, affecting both commercial and private aviation traffic.
Bangor International Airport is located approximately 160 kilometres (km) from St. Stephen. Travellers with upcoming flights are advised to check directly with their airline for the latest updates and to confirm departure and arrival plans before travelling to the airport.
The investigation remains ongoing.
