Jet explodes over Alps

An unidentified plane exploded while flying over the Alps early yesterday, and authorities launched a search for the wreckage, French media reported. Residents heard the blast and saw the burning aircraft in the sky between the cities of Annecy and Thones.

Traffic controllers in the region said they had no warning of the blast or any distress call from the plane, the radio said. About 80 police, fire-fighters and rescuers were mobilised, and a helicopter was to fly over the area to search for the wreckage, the radio said. AP - Paris