Light plane crashes on takeoff, airport closed

A light plane crashed on takeoff at Queenstown Airport today resulting in minor injuries to some of its five passengers.

The Cessna crashed about 8.30am just after becoming airborne.

The plane came down to the right of the runway nose first, causing the nose wheel to break, Inspector Stuart Leighton of police southern communications said.

All those on board were reported to be safe with no serious injuries. The Fire Service was dealing with a large quantity of fuel which was leaking from the aircraft.

The airport had been closed and the Civil Aviation Authority advised of the crash.

- NZPA