UPDATE: Six presumed dead after private jet crashes on takeoff at Bangor Airport

A Bombardier Challenger 650 business jet registered N10KJ carrying eight people crashed during takeoff from Runway 33 at Bangor International Airport in Maine on Sunday evening, prompting an immediate emergency response and the overnight closure of the airport.

All six people on board a private Bombardier Challenger 650 business jet that crashed during takeoff at Bangor International Airport in Maine on Sunday evening are presumed dead, airport authorities confirmed on Monday.

The aircraft crashed shortly after departure around 19:45, under still-unknown circumstances, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. It came to rest inverted and caught fire. Initial FAA information indicated seven fatalities and one seriously injured survivor, but the agency later deferred to the airport’s statement, acknowledging uncertainty over the exact number of occupants. The reason for the discrepancy has not been clarified.

The crash occurred amid severe winter weather, with below-freezing temperatures, snowfall and very low visibility. Air traffic control audio from LiveATC.net captures controllers discussing low visibility and de-icing conditions shortly before the jet was cleared for takeoff from Runway 33. Less than two minutes later, controllers halted all traffic after reporting an aircraft upside down on the field.

Emergency crews responded immediately, and the airport was closed following the accident. Bangor International Airport announced it will remain closed until at least noon on Wednesday.

Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating. While adverse weather has delayed the response, NTSB officials expect investigators to arrive on site later Monday. Authorities are asking anyone with surveillance footage or relevant information to contact the NTSB as the investigation continues.