PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) arrived on Tuesday to begin investigations at Bangor International Airport, where a Bombardier Challenger 600 business jet crashed during takeoff, resulting in the deaths of all six people on board.
The aircraft, bound for Paris, flipped over and caught fire during its takeoff around 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, coinciding with the onset of a significant winter storm in the area. As of Tuesday, it was still undetermined whether weather conditions contributed to the crash, with investigators just commencing their inquiries.
Experts have indicated that the NTSB will primarily scrutinize whether ice accumulation on the wings compromised the aircraft's ability to take off, a concern previously linked to incidents involving the same model. However, all potential factors will be examined.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed in an updated statement that all six individuals on board—comprising four passengers and two crew members—perished when the plane crashed under unclear circumstances and subsequently caught fire.
The crash victims include a pilot and an event planner
The Maine Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reported on Tuesday that they are collaborating with law enforcement to verify the identities of the deceased. Lakewood Church in Houston, affiliated with Joel Osteen Ministries, announced that one of the victims was Shawna Collins, 53, a long-serving employee responsible for the church's customer service department.
Collins was long admired for her warm personality and her expertise in organizing events. Her social media indicated her work planning celebrations in various locations, including Italy and Hawaii, for clients like Arnold and Itkin Trial Lawyers, linked to the plane's registration. Collins was also involved in planning her daughter's upcoming wedding.
Identified as the pilot was Jacob Hosmer, 47, a licensed flight instructor and managing member of Platinum Skies Aviation LLC, registered in Texas. The Bangor airport is a prominent refueling stop for private jets heading to Europe.
The NTSB has indicated an upcoming update on the investigation, and initial findings will be disclosed in approximately a month, with a final report expected after a year.
History of icing problems with these planes
The Bombardier Challenger 600, a wide-bodied jet suitable for 9 to 11 passengers, has a noted history of icing problems during takeoff that have previously led to deadly accidents in the U.K. and Colorado. Aviation safety consultant Jeff Guzzetti emphasized the importance of thorough inspections and de-icing measures, especially considering the weather conditions at the time of the crash.
