Three people had to be cut free from a small aircraft that has crashed upon takeoff from Teesside International Airport earlier today.
The pilot and two passengers have been taken to James Cook University Hospital after the incident that happened at 09:30.
Rob Cherrie of the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service told how the light aircraft "had taken off then come back down again very quickly" and fire crews had been "forced to cut the three people out of the plane".
The North East Ambulance Service said: "We sent two ambulances, a specialist paramedic, an officer and requested support from the Great North Air Ambulance. In total, three patients were taken to James Cook hospital, one with serious injuries. One patient was taken by air and the two other patients were transported by road."
The airport confirmed it would remain closed until Monday, "Following an incident involving a light aircraft this morning, we will remain closed for the weekend so the Air Accident Investigation Branch can carry out a thorough investigation. We are hopeful the airport will reopen on Monday.
As a result of this closure, Loganair will be contacting customers affected with details on how to claim a full refund or rebook an alternative date. They request that customers do not phone Loganair at this time.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank all of our passengers who have been very understanding today. All of our thoughts and prayers are with the three people onboard at the time of the incident and their families."
A Ryanair flight from Palma has been diverted to Newcastle and coaches have been arranged to transfer passengers.
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