A small civilian aircraft carrying parachutists crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday, 28 June 2026, near Tomblaine in northeastern France, according to a statement from the local prefecture. At least 11 people were killed in the incident.
French media report the plane was transporting a group of skydivers preparing for a freefall jump. According to L’Est Républicain, it was a German-built Pilatus aircraft — a model commonly used for skydiving operations. French public broadcaster franceinfo confirmed the aircraft carried five parachute instructors, five trainees, and an experienced pilot; none survived.
The crash occurred just minutes after departure, near the Nancy–Essey Airport. Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched a search and rescue operation. The exact cause of the accident remains unknown pending investigation.