A dramatic aviation incident unfolded at Bangor International Airport after a private Bombardier Challenger business jet crashed during takeoff amid severe winter weather, overturning on the runway and triggering an urgent response from fire and rescue crews.

The aircraft, which was carrying eight people, went down during its takeoff roll as heavy snow and low visibility blanketed the area. Emergency responders rushed to the scene as the jet came to rest upside down, forcing airport officials to immediately shut down the runway while authorities launched an investigation.

Chaos on the runway

The crash occurred as the aircraft attempted to depart in the midst of a powerful winter storm sweeping across Maine. Snowfall and reduced visibility were reported at the time, creating hazardous conditions on the runway.

Witnesses described seeing emergency vehicles race toward the aircraft within minutes as firefighters worked to secure the scene and ensure there was no fire or fuel leak.

Video footage circulating online shows the business jet overturned on the runway, surrounded by emergency crews working under difficult weather conditions.

Aircraft involved

The jet has been identified as a Bombardier Challenger, a popular long-range business aircraft commonly used for private and corporate travel.

According to preliminary information, the plane was in the process of accelerating for takeoff when it lost control and crashed, flipping onto its roof before coming to a stop.

Officials have not yet confirmed whether the aircraft experienced mechanical issues or whether weather alone played a decisive role.

Eight people on board

Authorities confirmed that eight people were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash. As of now, officials have not released full details regarding injuries or casualties, stating that information is still being verified.

Emergency medical personnel were seen assisting individuals at the scene, but investigators emphasized that casualty details remain pending as the situation continues to unfold.

Families and aviation officials alike are awaiting further updates as authorities work to assess the condition of everyone involved.

Runway shut down

Following the crash, the affected runway at Bangor International Airport was closed for several hours as emergency crews secured the aircraft and investigators began examining the scene.

Airport officials diverted or delayed flights while snow removal crews and safety inspectors worked to ensure the runway could be reopened safely.

Passengers traveling through the airport were advised to expect delays as the investigation continued.

Weather under scrutiny

Heavy snow and poor visibility are now a major focus of the investigation. Meteorological conditions at the time included snowfall, cold temperatures, and limited visibility — all factors that can significantly impact takeoff performance.

Aviation experts note that winter operations present unique challenges, particularly for private aircraft operating during storms.

“Low visibility and contaminated runways can dramatically reduce safety margins,” one aviation analyst said. “Even experienced crews can face sudden difficulties.”

Investigation launched

Federal aviation authorities have officially launched an investigation into the crash. Teams are reviewing flight data, crew actions, weather reports, and runway conditions to determine what led to the aircraft overturning during takeoff.

Investigators will also examine the aircraft’s maintenance history and interview crew members and airport personnel.

Officials cautioned that it may take weeks or months before a definitive cause is identified.

A close call under extreme conditions

While the full outcome remains unclear, the dramatic nature of the crash — with the jet flipping upside down — has raised serious questions about decision-making during extreme weather.

Aviation safety experts stress that takeoff is one of the most critical phases of flight, especially during winter storms.

“This incident highlights how quickly things can go wrong,” one expert said. “Conditions can deteriorate in seconds.”

Airport operations continue

Despite the incident, airport officials said operations resumed after safety checks were completed. Additional precautions remain in place as winter weather continues to affect the region.

Travelers are being urged to monitor flight updates and allow extra time when traveling during storm conditions.

Unanswered questions remain

As investigators work through the evidence, key questions remain unanswered:
• Did weather conditions exceed safe limits for takeoff?
• Was there a mechanical issue during the takeoff roll?
• Could the crash have been prevented by delaying departure?

For now, authorities say it is too early to draw conclusions.

The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have urged patience as they work to piece together what happened on the snow-covered runway that night.