Prime Minister John Key has expressed sympathy to the
families of those killed in a plane crash off France today.
Five New Zealanders are given no hope of surviving the crash
of an Airbus A320 operated by XL Airways of Germany in the
Mediterranean.
One Air New Zealand pilot, three engineers and a Civil
Aviation Authority (CAA) inspector were among the seven
people on the aircraft, which crashed off Perpignan, in
southeast France.
The Airbus was being flown by two XL Airways pilots.
At least three people have been confirmed dead while the four
others are missing.
One of CAA's Wellington staff is thought to be among the
missing.
A spokesman for Prime Minister John Key said he would hold a
press conference early this afternoon in Wellington to talk
about the crash.
"This is obviously a tragic situation for the families of the
people killed and also for the airline. We are in touch with
Air New Zealand and the Civil Aviation Authority."
Transport Minister Steven Joyce said the Government was
getting regular updates, and seeking briefings from
officials.
"Obviously the New Zealand Government has grave concerns and
is being updated on developments."
Mr Joyce said it was premature to comment on what shape any
investigation might take, but he expected New Zealand
agencies to play a part.
"But our thoughts right now are with the families, friends,
and colleagues of those who were on board."
