This is an update of the original story that happened in January 2026.
Bangor, ME (March 9, 2026) – Federal investigators have released new details about the plane crash in Bangor that killed six people in late January, providing early insight into what may have contributed to the deadly incident.
According to a preliminary report released Friday by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the aircraft had been de-iced before takeoff but may have required an additional de-icing treatment due to the weather conditions at the time.
Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the victims.
Aircraft Icing and Takeoff Risks
The preliminary NTSB report shows the aircraft had been de-iced before departure, but did not take off until about 15 minutes later. Investigators noted that the combination of snowfall and freezing temperatures meant the plane should have been de-iced approximately every nine minutes to prevent ice accumulation on critical surfaces.
According to the report, the plane barely reached 14 feet in altitude before banking sharply to the right, striking the ground, and exploding multiple times. The crash killed all six people on board, including the pilot, co-pilot, and four passengers.
Icing on wings and control surfaces can significantly reduce lift and aircraft performance, making takeoff extremely dangerous. Even a small accumulation can prevent the plane from climbing properly, leading to loss of control shortly after leaving the runway.
