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Plane Crashes on Takeoff at Malta Airport, 5 Aboard Killed

by Associated Press

   VALLETTA, MALTA --

   Officials say a light plane has crashed after takeoff from Malta
   International Airport, killing all five people on board.

   The twin-prop Metroliner tipped toward the right and crashed into the
   ground soon after lifting off at 7:20 a.m. Monday, bursting into
   flames, eyewitnesses said.

   Part of the burning wreckage ended up on a road outside the perimeter
   of the airport.
   The airplane was on its way to Misrata, Libya.
   Malta International Airport is temporarily closed until the debris is
   cleared.