IT has been confirmed that six people died in the Manx2.com plane crash in Ireland earlier today.
A statement on the Cork Airport website said: "Regrettably there have been six fatalities as a result of the incident and six survivors have been taken to hospital."
The aircraft, which was travelling from Belfast to Cork, crashed at the airfield as it was attempting to land shortly before 10am this morning.
Manx2.com said the aircraft, which had 10 passengers and two crew onboard, had tried to land twice and the incident took place on the planes third approach to the runway.
Cork Airport has been closed. The statement continued: "Management at Cork Airport would like to extend its sympathy to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives as a result of this tragic incident."
The Irish Aviation Authority also released the following statement: "The management and staff of the Irish Aviation Authority extend our deepest sympathy to the families of those who were killed or injured in this morning's air crash at Cork Airport.
"A full independent investigation by the Air Accident Investigation Unit of the Department of Transport has now been launched.
"The Irish Aviation Authority will cooperate fully with the Air Accident Investigation Unit investigation."
Anyone concerned about friends or relatives onboard the Manx2.com flight should contact the Casualty Information Bureau on 00 353 (0) 2143 28820.
Also see: Visibility to blame for Manx2.com crash?
