BD&J Aviation Accident Attorneys in California Stand Ready to Help Victims’ Families
In late January 2026, a major winter storm swept the country, cutting power and heat to tens of thousands of homes and businesses. Amidst the chaos of the storm, however, tragedy struck when a private business jet departing Bangor International Airport in Bangor, Maine, flipped over and caught fire. Despite being cleared for takeoff, the storm conditions created dangerous conditions for flight. So, what caused the crash and the death of six passengers, and what can the victims’ families do to demand answers and justice? Aviation accident attorneys in California have answers.
If your loved one was killed in the tragic plane crash at Bangor International Airport, you deserve support. Complete the form or call us 24/7 for a free consultation. We’re here for you.
Why did the plane crash at Bangor International Airport?
The private jet arrived safely at Bangor International Airport in the evening as Maine continued to be battered by the historic winter storm that buried much of the country under ice and snow. At 7:45 p.m., the plane began departure after being cleared to take off by air traffic control. While reports indicate that authorities are unsure how the plane flipped and burst into flames, many have made educated guesses based on information available, including the weather conditions and the plane model. Some theories include:
- A slippery runway caused skidding and overcorrection. This resulted in flipping the aircraft, like a rollover car crash.
- Low visibility caused the plane to go off course during takeoff. Freezing rain, sleet, and snow created near-white-out conditions while the jet aimed to take off. The plane could have driven off the runway accidentally.
- The plane’s model is allegedly prone to excessive ice on the wings. This may have caused the plane’s weight to shift unexpectedly and for the wings to not generate the lift needed to take off.
Who survived the jet crash in Maine?
Currently, reports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and local authorities in Bangor, Maine, do not identify the passengers onboard the crashed plane. However, we know that, of the seven people onboard according to the manifest, six died at the scene. One crew member is reported to have survived, but their identity and current condition are unknown. At a press conference, airport director Jose Saavedra noted that information regarding the victims was being held awaiting guidance from authorities and positive identification.
What kind of plane caused the jet crash in Maine?
The private jet model that was involved in the crash at Bangor International Airport in Bangor, Maine, is a Bombardier Challenger 600. This aircraft has a long history of development and use by private business clients and airlines. The Challenger 600 was praised for its cutting-edge miniaturization of traditional twinjet airliners. The widened fuselage created a spacious and luxurious “walk-about cabin” for passengers.
Despite its qualities, the design also came with flaws that may have played a role in the plane crash, say BD&J’s California plane accident attorneys. The model is reported to have problems with icing – where ice builds up on the wings and body of the aircraft, negating the aircraft’s aerodynamic shape. Because the fuel tanks also sit on the wings and are often filled with cold fuel, the icing on the wings may have been further worsened. With ice impeding the airfoil shape of the wings, the Challenger 600 may not be able to generate lift for takeoff.
What happens to the family of the deceased victims of the plane crash?
Because authorities have stated the victims’ information will remain private until all can be positively identified, the families of the victims lost in this tragic plane crash may be stuck waiting for a devastating call. Those who have already been notified are likely being asked to identify their loved ones. No one should go through such a thing alone. BD&J offers its deepest condolences to the families of those passengers lost.
Given the unusual nature of the crash, an investigation will be ongoing into whether there was any wrongdoing. BD&J’s aviation accident attorneys in California are investigating these circumstances as well for victims’ families, so they might have closure and justice. If any misconduct is uncovered, our wrongful death lawyers will partner with clients to demand compensation from the responsible parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is liable for the private jet crash in Bangor, Maine?
The investigation into the plane crash at Bangor International Airport is still ongoing, but BD&J’s plane accident attorneys have begun looking into possible liability for the families of the deceased passengers. Some possible liable parties include the pilot for unsafe takeoff technique; the air traffic controllers for authorizing departure during dangerous conditions; the airport for not ensuring planes were deiced; and the manufacturer of the Challenger 600 for its ice-prone design.
Are air traffic controllers or the FAA responsible?
It is possible that air traffic controllers may be held responsible for this crash. As this tragedy took place during inclement weather, it may be unlikely that a case can be made against the FAA, however.
Who owned the plane?
The Bombardier Challenger 600 that crashed in Maine was owned by a Houston-based law firm, according to reports. Though it remains unclear what the Texas firm’s private plane was doing in Maine, there is no reason to suspect the firm’s involvement in the crash.
Can family members sue the plane manufacturers or air traffic controllers?
Yes, family members of deceased passengers in the crash in Maine may have grounds to demand compensation from the manufacturer of the plane, Bombardier, or from the individual air traffic controllers on duty.
What kind of compensation can family recover after a wrongful death?
Wrongful death cases, especially ones in which the death was sudden and traumatic, can often recover significant compensation for surviving family. Not only are loved ones left grieving a horrific accident and the loss of their family members, they also must now consider financial changes as well. Through a personal injury claim, they could demand compensation for lost income, loss of consortium, funeral costs, and more.
Does Bangor International Airport deice planes?
Yes, Bangor International Airport deices planes regularly to prepare for takeoff. In this case, however, it’s unclear if the plane underwent the deicing process. This is a key factor to consider as federal authorities and BD&J investigate the crash.
How to find a plane crash attorney near you
Plane crashes and aviation accidents in California and beyond are tragic and require a sensitive attorney who understands the complexities of aircraft and governing regulations. When searching for a aviation accident lawyer near you, keep these three questions in mind:
- Do they have a history of successful aviation accident cases? The first factor to consider is whether a lawyer has actually worked in the aviation litigation sphere before. Unlike car accidents, aircraft and aviation accidents involve several parties that are responsible for safe flights. If an attorney doesn’t have demonstrated success in this area, they may not be a good fit.
- Do they seem like they settle early or fight for justice? Attorneys take different paths to obtain justice for clients. While some prioritize a quick settlement, others, like the California plane crash attorneys at BD&J, push for the maximum possible compensation for each client. Consider whether settling early for less compensation or pursuing the maximum is most important to you.
- Are they patient, communicative, and compassionate with their clients? The most important aspect of a great personal injury attorney is whether they treat you with kindness and understanding throughout your case. Reading reviews online and seeking word of mouth referrals is a great way to gauge an attorney’s client care.
If you’d like to schedule a free consultation to understand why so many choose BD&J during the hardest days of their lives, complete the form or call us 24/7.
BD&J mourns the loss of the six victims and aims to hold negligent parties responsible for this tragedy
This tragic crash may still be under investigation, but the families of the deceased deserve a team to lean on during such a horrific period. BD&J continues to investigate the crash and the entities that may be responsible so those impacted can be properly honored and compensated. Nothing can ease the passing of a loved one, but financial compensation can help reduce the burdens while families grieve.
Did you lose a loved one in the plane crash in Maine? Let us help you navigate the next steps. Call us 24/7 or complete the form for a free consultation.
