A tragic plane crash in northeastern France resulted in the deaths of 11 people on board, including five parachuting instructors, five novice skydivers, and the pilot. The accident occurred shortly after takeoff from Nancy-Essey Airport. Authorities suspect that a malfunction led to the crash.

Accident Details

The plane reportedly banked left before crashing near residential homes, missing them by a narrow margin. This close proximity could have led to further casualties. Flight tracking data corroborates these details.

Government and Emergency Response

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez and Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot visited the crash site. They praised the efforts of emergency responders, including firefighters and police, who acted swiftly at the scene. A medico-psychological emergency unit was set up to support grieving families and witnesses.

Investigation Underway

The Paris prosecutor’s office has initiated an investigation, which the Air Transport Gendarmerie’s investigative unit is handling. The aim is to uncover the cause of the crash, which has been marked as France’s deadliest skydiving-related incident in three decades.

Witness Reports

A local resident reported hearing the plane’s engine stop before the crash, followed by a loud impact. Upon reaching the scene, he observed no signs of life.

Context and Recent Similar Events

This crash follows a similar incident in the U.S. near Kansas City, Missouri, where a skydiving plane crash killed 12 people. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing, focusing on uncovering the contributing factors.