What happened
On August 22, 2025, a Cessna A185F, registration N714HE, was involved in an accident near Bangor, Maine, resulting in 1 fatality.
The flight was being operated as a Part 91 ferry flight, traveling from Goose Bay Airport (CYYR) in Newfoundland, Canada, to Rutland, Vermont. The aircraft arrived at Bangor International Airport (BGR) to clear customs. During the approach, the pilot was cleared for a visual approach to runway 33. While on short final, the pilot requested a wind check, and the controller reported winds of 020 degrees at 14 knots, gusting to 19 knots.
As the aircraft touched down on the runway, it bounced and began a ground loop to the left. The left wing made contact with the pavement, and the aircraft struck a precision approach path indicator (PAPI) light located on the left side of the runway. Following this impact, the airplane became airborne again, entered a steep left bank, struck the airport perimeter fence, and ultimately impacted a field west of the runway. There was no post-impact fire.
The investigation
A review of airport surveillance video and cell phone footage confirmed that the aircraft bounced upon touchdown and subsequently veered left. An eyewitness, an FAA employee driving on the airport perimeter road, observed the left wing approaching the pavement and noted a crosswind blowing east. The wreckage was recovered and moved to a secure facility for examination.