PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The National Transportation Safety Board arrived Tuesday to begin investigations at a Maine airport where a Bombardier Challenger 600 business jet crashed during takeoff, killing all six people on board.
The Paris-bound jet flipped over and burned on takeoff at Bangor International Airport around 7:45 p.m. Sunday, as a massive winter storm was beginning to affect the area. Investigators have not yet determined whether the weather played a role in the crash.
Experts suggest that ice accumulation on the wings may have prevented the aircraft from becoming airborne, a problem that has been associated with this plane model in the past. However, the NTSB stated they will examine all possible factors contributing to the incident.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the crash resulted in six fatalities, including four passengers and two flight crew members. The agency indicated that the plane crashed under unknown circumstances and was found inverted and on fire.
The crash victims include a pilot and an event planner
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Maine is collaborating with law enforcement to identify those who perished in the incident. Among the deceased was Shawna Collins, 53, an employee at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, who was recognized for her contributions in event planning.
Collins, known for her vibrant and loving personality, was involved in organizing significant events for various clients and also had been planning her daughter’s wedding scheduled for this year.
Additionally, Jacob Hosmer, identified as the pilot, was a licensed flight instructor and managing member of Platinum Skies Aviation LLC, which owned the aircraft.
The Bangor International Airport serves as a common refueling stop for private jets traveling to Europe, approximately 200 miles north of Boston. The NTSB expects to release updates in the following days, with a preliminary report on the crash available within a month, but a final report could take over a year.
History of icing problems with these planes
The Bombardier Challenger 600 is a well-known business jet that has been in operation since 1980. Experts note that this model has a troubling history of icing issues during takeoff, contributing to past accidents. Close inspections and effective de-icing procedures are critically essential before flying in adverse weather conditions.
Given the defined weather circumstances at the time of the accident, and the known icing problems associated with the Challenger 600, investigators will certainly focus on these aspects as they continue their investigation.
