Chilling new details have emerged in the investigation into the deadly crash of a Bombardier Challenger 650 business jet in Maine, after audio from the aircraft’s radio communications captured a voice saying the haunting phrase, “let there be light,” just minutes before the plane went down.

The aircraft crashed during takeoff from Bangor International Airport at approximately 7:45 p.m. Sunday, according to aviation officials. All communication between the aircraft and ground control is now under close examination as investigators work to determine what caused the fatal incident.

A phrase that raises questions

The brief but unsettling line was picked up on the aircraft’s radio recording shortly before the crash. It remains unclear whether the phrase was spoken by one of the pilots or by an air-traffic controller — or what exactly was meant by it.

Investigators have not confirmed the context of the remark, and officials cautioned against drawing conclusions until the full audio analysis is complete. Still, the phrase has drawn attention due to its timing, coming only moments before the aircraft failed to complete its takeoff.

“At this stage, we do not know who said it or why,” an aviation source familiar with the investigation said. “Every second of audio is being carefully reviewed.”

The aircraft and the crash

The jet involved was a Bombardier Challenger 650, a long-range business aircraft commonly used for private and corporate travel. The plane reportedly encountered trouble during its takeoff roll before crashing near the runway.

Emergency crews responded quickly, but the impact and resulting fire left no chance for survival. Officials have not yet released a final report on the number of people on board or their identities, pending notification of next of kin.

What happened during takeoff?

Takeoff is considered one of the most critical phases of flight, requiring precise coordination between pilots, engines, and runway conditions. Investigators are now examining whether mechanical failure, environmental factors, or human error played a role.

Weather conditions at the time of the crash included darkness and cold evening temperatures, though officials have not confirmed whether visibility or runway conditions were contributing factors.

Flight data and cockpit voice recordings are being analyzed to reconstruct the aircraft’s final moments.

Focus on communications

Radio communications between pilots and air-traffic controllers often provide key insight into what was happening in the cockpit. Investigators are paying particular attention to whether the phrase “let there be light” referenced runway lighting, visibility issues, or an internal cockpit action.

Experts caution that aviation language can sometimes sound alarming when taken out of context.

“Pilots and controllers use shorthand and casual phrasing all the time,” one aviation analyst said. “Without context, it’s impossible to know whether the comment was routine or significant.”

Investigation underway

Federal aviation safety authorities have taken control of the crash investigation. Wreckage from the aircraft has been secured, and specialists are examining engine components, avionics, and structural damage.

The airport temporarily suspended operations following the crash but has since reopened after safety inspections.

Officials emphasized that determining a cause could take weeks or months.

A tragedy under scrutiny

While the investigation continues, the eerie radio phrase has added an unsettling layer to an already tragic incident. Families, aviation experts, and the public alike are awaiting answers about what went wrong in the moments before the aircraft went down.

Authorities urged patience, stressing that early information can be misleading until the investigation is complete.

“This is a methodical process,” an official said. “We owe it to the victims to get it right.”

For now, the final seconds of the flight — and the meaning behind those haunting words — remain a mystery.