Nigerians escape burning plane

Enugu, Nigeria, 04 Aug-(ANA)-A total of thirty people aboard a commercial plane bound for Abuja, the Nigerian capital, have been rescued after the aircraft burst into flames shortly before takeoff.

Reports say the aircraft, owned by Capital Airlines, produced thick smoke from its right wing as it rolled from the tarmac to the runway at the Akana Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, eastern Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that some passengers were injured as they tried escape from the burning aircraft.

Airport officials said fire-fighters were prompt and effective in saving the lives of the passengers and ensuring safety at the airport.

The Nigerian Airport Authority is yet to comment on the incident.(ANA)

FA/ANA/04 August 2009---