A rescue operation has been launched and it is not yet known whether any of the nine passengers on board have been injured in the crash.

       The plane crashed at Las Americas Airport in Santo Domingo while in transit to Florida.

       It had taken off from La Isabela Airport in Santo Domingo and was heading to the States, according to Listin Diario, one of the leading newspapers in the Dominican Republic.

       Helidosa Aviation Group, the operator of the plane, recounted the incident on social media.

       They wrote on Twitter: “We hereby inform you that today, the HI1050 aircraft with two crew members and seven passengers has crashed at the AILA.

       “Our Company is actively working to obtain more information and collaborating with the rescue bodies.”