LIVE: Plane Crash Kills 78 Passengers on Board at Florida State Airport

LIVE: Plane Crash Kills 78 Passengers on Board at Florida State Airport

A devastating plane crash occurred earlier today at a Florida state airport, claiming the lives of 78 passengers onboard. The tragic incident unfolded at approximately 11:30 AM, just moments after the aircraft attempted to take off from the runway.

The plane, a commercial jet operated by a major airline, was en route to New York when it encountered a catastrophic failure shortly after leaving the ground. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion before the plane plummeted to the ground, bursting into flames on impact. Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes, but the wreckage was too extensive for any survivors to be found.

Local authorities and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, though preliminary reports suggest possible mechanical failure or an issue with the plane’s engines. Airport officials confirmed that the aircraft was fully staffed and had passed all required safety checks prior to takeoff.

Florida Governor Sandra Bellamy expressed her deep condolences to the victims’ families and assured the public that authorities are doing everything in their power to determine the cause of this tragedy. “This is a heartbreaking moment for our state,” she said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families as we work tirelessly to uncover the facts.”

In the aftermath of the crash, the airport has been temporarily closed, and flights have been diverted to neighboring airports as the investigation continues. The airline involved has pledged full cooperation with the authorities and has set up support services for affected families.

The identities of the passengers have not yet been released, but authorities have confirmed that many were traveling on business or for leisure. The plane’s crew, including the pilots and flight attendants, are also confirmed to have perished in the crash.

This marks one of the deadliest air disasters in the United States in recent years, and the shock of the event has rippled across the country. Families, friends, and colleagues of those on board anxiously await further updates, while the aviation community braces for what could be a lengthy investigation into the cause of this horrific accident.