TOMBLAINE, France — June 28, 2026 — Eleven people were killed after a small aircraft carrying skydivers crashed near the town of Tomblaine, close to Nancy in eastern France on Sunday.

According to French authorities, the aircraft went down shortly after taking off from Nancy-Essey Airport. Emergency responders, firefighters, and police teams quickly arrived at the scene to secure the area and begin rescue operations.

Officials said all 11 people on board died in the crash. The victims included the pilot, skydiving instructors, and trainee skydivers. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported on the ground despite the aircraft crashing near a populated area.

Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft experience difficulties moments after takeoff before it rapidly descended and crashed. Investigators have not yet determined the exact cause of the accident, and a formal investigation has been launched by French aviation authorities.

French officials expressed condolences to the victims’ families, while emergency services continued operations at the crash site. The tragedy has shocked the local community and is being described as one of the deadliest civilian aviation accidents in France this year.

Source: Reuters, June 28, 2026.