Private jet crashes on takeoff in Maine: What we know

A private business jet carrying eight people crashed during takeoff at Bangor International Airport in Maine on Sunday evening amid a severe winter storm impacting the Northeast, according to federal aviation authorities.

A Bombardier Challenger 600 crashed as it was taking off from Bangor International Airport around 7:45 p.m. local time on Sunday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) told Newsweek. Eight people were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash. The extent of injuries to those aboard remains unknown. Emergency crews responded to the scene, and the airport has been closed.

The crash occurred during a massive snowstorm moving through the Northeast, with Bangor experiencing temperatures well below freezing and light snow causing very low visibility. The FAA and NTSB will investigate the incident. “We are unable to provide any additional information at this time but ask that the public avoid the area,” a Bangor International Airport spokesperson told Newsweek on Sunday.

A National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) spokesperson also told Newsweek the agency is aware of the incident but has no information to share at this time, noting that local authorities responding to the scene would have the most up-to-date information. The FAA stated it will post a preliminary accident/incident report on its website, usually the next business day.

This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.