Two French citizens have died in the crash of a light aircraft near Cherif Al Idrissi Airport in the Moroccan city of Al Hoceima, the local newspaper Hespress reported, citing sources in government agencies.
According to the newspaper, the aircraft requested an emergency landing at the airport for refueling. Another source reported a technical malfunction on board the aircraft. After landing, the aircraft owner carried out necessary repairs and refueled the plane. The crew was then given clearance for takeoff.
However, approximately three minutes after takeoff, the aircraft crashed in close proximity to the airport. According to Hespress, the pilot died at the scene. The passenger died from their injuries on the way to the hospital.
The causes of the crash have not yet been officially determined.
In July of last year, a training Alpha Jet aircraft crashed in Morocco during a training flight. Two military personnel died in the crash.