Eleven people were killed after a light aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff near Nancy in northeastern France on Sunday.

Axar.az reports, citing French media, the aircraft, carrying a group participating in a parachuting experience, went down moments after departing from Nancy-Essey airfield in Tomblaine.

Those killed included the pilot, five instructors and five trainee parachutists.

Authorities said the crash was likely caused by a mechanical failure, though the exact cause remains under investigation. France's air transport gendarmerie and the National Gendarmerie's Criminal Research Institute have been tasked with examining the aircraft.