Unconfirmed news reports have said that radar screen data showed there had been an explosion. The missing aircraft is only the third such plane to be lost, but follows a recent string of incidents involving Boeing aircraft.

It is the most widely used passenger aircraft across the Atlantic, and is estimated to have carried 813 million passengers on more than 3 million flights since 1982.

Among the 199 passengers were 62 Egyptians, two Sudanese, three Syrians, one Chilean and as many as 131 Americans. A major search and rescue operation is under way.

I lost two friends on that flight, the only thing I can say now is, I hope they did not suffer a lot on their death. I do believe in God and I know that when it is my time, I can do nothing to stop it, God Help us all to come over such things but it is still hard to just forget or accept losing be loved persons like that.
Ahmed Shaheen, USA/Egypt

All my sympathy for the poor people on that plane. May the passengers' relatives and friends know the truth about this horrible crash. Sincerely
Roberto Simonetti Spallotta, Italy

Recent revelations with problems with the thrust reverser are worrying since it was the in-flight opening of thrust reverser on a 767 caused the crash of a Lauda Air 767 some time ago. Something that was thought impossible. Coincidence?
Carl Hewitt, UK

We have to do something about the aviation tragedies. This can't go on much longer. Invest in finding ways to prevent such horrible tragedies.
Jimmy, Sweden

Such a terrible waste of human life. It makes you realise how precious one's time on this small planet really is. Wishing you all a long and peaceful life.
Simon Gray, UK

It was a great human tragedy. My condolences to all the bereaved families from deep of my heart.
Shafeeq Ahmed, USA

My thoughts are with the families and friends of all those who were killed in this terrible crash. My thoughts are also with all people who have lost loved ones in the Paddington crash, earthquakes, cyclones, floods, the list is endless. And I would like people to spare a thought for the loved ones of the 3,500 people who die on British roads every year, and never get a mention. I would still rather fly than drive.
Sheppy, UK

Almost three weeks ago, I was flying the same route with TWA 888 and when I heard about this tragic accident it was so frightening and asked myself why not me? My deepest thoughts, prayers and sincere condolences to the bereaved families. I know what to loose a dear one...
However it doesn't make sense to speculate over the past crashes and try to link them up. Right now all we need is to stand with those who lost their loved ones on that flight and leave the job to the FAA to determine the cause of this fatal accident.
Tim Muzira, Rwanda

As ever, it seems the innocent must suffer for the inadequacies of big business interests who put money before people. As long as a human life is valued less than a technical modification to a car, a train or a plane tragedies will continue to occur. May they rest in peace.
Andy Cook, UK

Why speculate....? When God decides our life is over, it's over. Does it matter whether it's in a plane crash, from cancer, or murdered?
Babu, India

My thoughts are with all the relatives of flight 990. I have other thoughts too. I realise it was unlikely to find anyone alive from the outset, but why are authorities concentrating on retrieving the black boxes? In this age, would it not be better if they constantly transmitted all information directly to a computer on land? We know there are computers capable of logging telephone calls from anywhere in the world, couldn't they log the black box voice and data as it happens?
This way we wouldn't have Navy ships dedicating their time to finding black boxes, and instead concentrate on finding the bodies and belongings for relatives. If this system were up and running, maybe we would find answers more quickly, and act on them before another plane experiences such a tragedy!
Dominic, UK

I send my sincere condolences to all concerned. I lived in Egypt for many years and travelled on Egypt Air flights on a very regular basis and I always found them to be a good quality airline
Helen Catlow, Gambia

What really concerns me is that the American media is abusing this crash to point their fingers towards Egyptair, absolutely forgetting that the plane that fell this time was a Boeing as usual. There must be something terribly wrong with this company, I rarely heard of an Airbus falling down. Amidst rumours that the plane had 30 highly trained Egyptian military personnel on board, I can not exclude the possibility of sabotage; at least that's what everybody in the street in Cairo thinks.
Hatem Tawfik, Egypt

A terrible day for the commercial aviation industry - if, that is, the cause of the accident is demonstrated to have been a faulty thrust reverser. This terrible accident spoltights the need for global safety regulations which would apply to all scheduled airlines. Notwithstanding this, it appears that the engine manufacturer may bear significant responsibility for this accident.
James, UK

The plane crash as like all other tragedies where a large loss of life occurs is very sad - and newsworthy - but these notes of condolence show a basic human warmth which is heartening. Some of them show ignorance. We have to accept that those passengers are dead and their loved ones will have to get on with their lives and somehow overcome their grief.
Carolyn Harris, England

I love aeroplanes and travelling by air! The news gave me another shock after learning the consecutive crashes of TWA and Swissair; I would like to send my condolences to the families that have their relatives onboard the flight 990. I just think that whether or not there is a "link" between the ill-fated Kennedy family and the airport John F. Kennedy? All the flights crashed departed from JFK Airport!!!
Vuong, Tuan Hao, Vietnam

Don't fly with Boeing 767 aircraft anymore until you know how safety they are. You HAVE the right to know that! How about other models? Do they published a complete list of their models with all the possible defects? Also for other aircraft vendors!
Stefan Parvu, Finland

May the Lord give strength, peace and endurance to the bereaved families. Life is originally short but all those on board is robbed of their precious moment from their loved ones due to some irresponsible act. I prayed that the truth be surfaced in the shortest time. May God embraced the lost soul and grant them eternal peace in his land.
Louise Angeline, Singapore

My deepest condolences for all the families and the rescue teams. The dead will always be remembered in our hearts. God, Allah will help us all move along from these difficult moments! Let's hope that there will be no more accidents of this kind and governments will take serious measures to prevent such horrible tragedies.
Rab Nawaz, Pakistan

A tragedy for everyone involved; words cannot possibly convey sufficient sympathy and compassion for the families who lost loved ones.
Mark M. Newdick, USA/UK

In the name of Allah we shall pray for the people we lost and may God give their relatives strength and courage. Its a fact that there is nothing more important than a human life. I believe that airplane manufactures have to reconsider their policy regarding aeroplane safety and maintenance. we are ending this century with more aeroplane tragedies and its relatively obvious it will happen again if we just say "it's just an accident " I am deeply sad and there are no words to describe the effect of this tragedy. May Allah be with all of us.
Almanei, Saleh, USA

May the relatives of those departed find comfort and peace during their trying experience.
Sam Yonren, Nigeria

Words can't express how sorry I feel for the families involved in this incident. I'm sorry, truly, truly sorry.
Mike Avent, UK

What a tragedy! Why the tragedy happened to these innocent people. Tears in my eyes when I saw the news. Deepest condolence to the misfortune family. I am with them.
Liu Xing, P.R.China

First of all to Frank Lee of Canada you are a moron for suggesting that the Israelis could have been behind this disaster...who the hell are you to assign responsibility for this tragedy? Do you know something we don't? Instead of spreading rumours and hate, why not say a simple prayer for the victims and leave the responsibility for determining the cause of the crash to the FAA.
Jack Webb, USA

I fly a great deal around Asia particularly. I am well aware of the need to fly with an airline that takes seriously its responsibilities to passenger safety. I think Eygpt Air have been "getting" away with things for a long time....this time their luck ran out! Next time it could be me and I think that it's about time we stopped ALLOWING these tragedies to occur. Everything possible should be done to ensure there are ZERO accidents and failures. One death is too many and I can't believe that some people quote statistics saying how safe airline travel is......get real. Are some casualties a price worth paying....well if they are not YOUR family then you could say yes.....think about it. With deepest sympathy for the families of those who have been killed.
Mike, Singapore

May god's peace be with the families of the victims. It could happen to any one in any place at any time. The most important thing is to love and be at peace with everyone. God's blessings.
Stacey, Sierra Leone

I was shocked after hearing this news. It's a real pity that the Egypt Air has met such a terrific accident. From this incident the Egypt airlines must be careful to its flight safety. May god bless the souls of the people who died in this accident.
Jeetesh Shrestha, Germany

My deep condolences for all the families who lost their love ones may God bless them all, its a real tragedy words are not enough to express what I feel for them all. May their soul rest in peace.
Jomana Rasmi, Palestine

Why are officials so quick to downplay out sabotage. While Clinton is trying to make peace in the Middle East there are also extremists in the Middle East hard at work to spoil relations between Israel and the Arabs. Something is not cricket, and it is almost surely Semitic. Don't forget Rabin, and the victims of 990, and pray that the extremists do not have their way.
Bert, USA

Many of us fly on Boeing planes in most of the flights especially the long ones. Such accidents reported on Boeing aircraft make me get very worried because I have no options within our region.
John Wamara, Uganda

Any loss of life is always a tragedy, it gives us a sad reason to hold our loved ones more closely and not take the short life we have here on earth for granted. I hope the families know that their loved ones are on another flight to heaven to be with the Angels...
Stephanie Rowland, United States

May God bless those who died in this tragic accident and soothe the sorrow of their families. I hope the cause of this accident will be made known soon. At the same time, I think bad weather played a major part in it.
Desmond Wong, Hong Kong

I would like to extend my deepest condolences to all the families left behind by their loved ones on the ill-fated flight of EgyptAir 990. Only they know how tough it is to cope with this disaster. Let us all help them in anyway we can, directly or indirectly, with assistance and prayers. Let us also hope that the cause of the accident will finally be found out, their families will at least be able to recover the bodies of their loved ones, so as to help ease the pain of this seemingly unimaginable and unbearable tragedy. I pray and hope that the families left behind will be given the strength and patience to carry on their lives.
Eji, Indonesia

I can hardly express my feelings about a tragedy like this. My condolences to all those who lost their loved ones in this accident. I just hope that the investigations lead us to the truth. Tonight I will pray to the Lord to give you the strength to face these moments, don't ever lose your faith.
Captain Fabrizzio Montes de Oca, Mexico

It's always sad to hear of such tragedies that take place, especially when it involves a mass loss of human life. My thoughts and prayers are with all the Families of the victims. I have travelled many times on Egypt Air, and have found their security measures to be satisfactory.
Pankaj Gujral, Zimbabwe

My deepest condolences to the families of the victims.
Raza Hameed, Pakistan

I feel deeply saddened and sick at this terrible, unfortunate tragedy. I pray for every family and loved one who must be in despair at the moment. Deepest sympathy to you all, I hope the cause of this horrific accident will soon enlighten the world.
Vicky, UK

There are certainly many factors that need to be taken into consideration. Is there a serious design flaw with this aircraft? If not, are airlines properly maintaining their planes? Could there be a security breach at JFK airport? All three are distinct possibilities. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims. I sincerely hope that the investigation will shed some light on the causes of this terrible tragedy!
Anne-Marie, USA

Reference to planes leaving from JFK is unnecessary. Since JFK is the one of the busiest airport in the world, it could just be coincidence. Let it not become another Bermuda Triangle issue. My deepest sympathies go out to the friends and relatives of all those on board flight 990
Satya, USA

Hundreds of thousands of aircraft take off and land each year and it is a miracle that we have so few crashes. I wish to extend my sympathies to everyone devastated by this accident. I feel that the US government is fully capable of handling this investigation - more so than perhaps any other country. Air travel is very safe and the US - though by no means perfect- is always making it safer and more reliable.
Jen, USA

It's a tragedy beyond expression. I only wish that the FAA will, with all its resources find out cause of the explosion and why it has to happen at that area of air space.
Harry Chia, Singapore

I flew in Egypt Air few years ago and their African service is really bad. Though what happened is really bad for the families, I hope it will be a wake up call to improve what they are doing and not be so much money/profit focused.
Daniel F Yesus, Ethiopia

Sad we may be...fate we have to accept. I was in a 767 last month in the US and I fully understand I may be one of the victims too. Having flown with Egyptair too, I agree that much improvement is needed from the airline. Once we have taken all necessary precautions, we have to rely to God...anything can happen...beyond our control...only HE has the full control and decide the fate.
Ahmad, Malaysia

My condolences to the friends and families of this disaster. One person wrote that Egypt Air is the worst Airline, and someone mentioned that it's one of the best. SwissAir is definitely the most expensive I've ever tried to fly with, and look what happened. Personally, I think Egypt is air is actually one of the best flights I have taken to Egypt.
Ehab Bassilli, Canada

My heart aches every time I think of all the poor victims and their families involved in this horrible tragedy. I try to imagine myself in a situation similar to this, and tears form in my eyes, so much is left behind. To all victims' friends and family, may God give you strength and patience in dealing with the loss of your loved one. It's such a horrible tragedy. May God bless you all.
Tom Arkelian, USA

To the families and friends of the passengers and crew on EgyptAir 990...my thoughts are with you in your moment of anguish and pain. Take care and hold dear the memories of your loved ones. Almighty God have mercy on those who stand before Thee.
Nick Phua, Singapore

My prayers are with the near and dear of the people who lost their lives.
Vinay Menon, India

My deepest condolences to the surviving friends and family of the passengers and crew of Flight 990. This was a terrible tragedy, and although this may not help now, please take heart in knowing that those aboard are with God now. May He help you through this sad time. God Bless.
Elizabeth Donaway, USA

Theories that summise terrorism or mechanical failure at such an early stage should all be ignored until both of the 'Black Box' flight recorders are recovered. As far as I can identify the crucial point to note is that the IFF was still transmitting mode 'C' until the aircraft crashed. This clarifies one fact, and that is that the aircraft did not explode.
Another fact was why was there no Mayday call. If the aircraft had rapidly depressurised the flight crew have oxygen masks to breathe and transmit radio messages. If engines failed, again ram generators could be dropped to provide power for transmission. An explanation could be that there was interference with the crew by some sort of hijack. This could explain why flight into the sea occurred with power to the aircraft but no distress call published. It would be interesting to see if the transponder was squawking 7700?
Charlie Howard-Higgins, England

Long moments of silence passed when I heard the terrible news. I couldn't think or say anything... it was just very shocking. My heart is with everyone who lost a loved one. May they rest in peace.
I hate it when safety is put at risk for the sake of increased sales or fame and I hope this is not the case here. I hope EgyptAir and/or Boeing did not neglect any safety measures when providing their services/aeroplanes and if turns out to be the cause of the accident may the drawbacks on them teach them a good lesson.
R, USA

It is acknowledged by the FAA and NTSB that many of the aircraft of the age of the Egyptair plane have potential wiring/overheating problems similar to those that caused the crash of the Swissair flight at almost the same site. There is no directive issued to fix these problems because it would mean grounding many aircraft, and would be very costly to remedy. Therefore, until these costly repairs are undertaken, we may have to resign ourselves to frequent crashes.
Tim Clarke, USA

We are all praying for the families of those who were on flight 990. I myself have taken this flight many times to Egypt, and even though service on Egyptair isn't the greatest, I must confess that their pilots are very well trained and are amongst the best in the world, and also Egyptair's safety records speak for themselves. I hope the questions we all have can be answered quickly to bring closure to this tragedy.
A. Sami, U.S.A

Our condolences to everyone who knew people on that plane, families, relatives, friends, colleagues, everyone! God bless you all. The governments of France (TWA 800), Switzerland and Egypt should force the US Government right now to bring more light in the issue of safety and any related areas of New York's airports.
Umachandra, USA

I have flown on Egypt Air flights recently (Cairo to Amman, Jordan) and it is quite clear that the crew do not enforce the prohibition on the use of cell phones at takeoff and landing times. Perhaps this was a factor in the recent crash.
Amina Dreessen, Cairo, Egypt

This must be a sabotage.A plane just does not fall out of the sky. Maybe there is a relation to the hijacking of that plane from Istanbul bound for Cairo. Maybe the cause was similar to the Lauda Air that went down 1991, after about an hour's flight. One engine went into reverse in the middle of the sky and went down immediately. Otherwise it must be a sabotage, because no one in the cockpit was able to report any problems, so it must have been instant blackout, which then more makes it sound like an explosion on board.
Anders, Sweden

My heartfelt condolences to those families who lost loved ones in this horrible accident which should not have happened. You are in my prayers. May Allah bless you all.
Katrin, London, England

Although many people have remarked on many similarities between this and previous tragedies, this area of airspace is extremely busy - the aviation equivalent of the M25 - and, like the M25, has more incidents simply because there is more traffic. If we examined the number of flight disasters per flight I am sure it would be equal to (probably less than) many other air routes. Far from having any 'sinister' pattern, it is just unfortunate coincidence.
Neil Lees, UK

Too much talk, too much speculation, too soon after the crash. My concern is to help the families and friends of the victims cope with their tragic loss..
Fred Rodriguez, USA

I am perturbed by the similarities between this incident and the Lauda Airlines crash. I was shocked to hear that the FAA directive to modify the thrust reverser is not apparently binding on overseas carriers. Given that the two aircraft virtually rolled off the production line at the same time, I would be very interested to hear if the FAA modifications were in fact made. Furthermore, how many more 767 aircraft are flying with this potentially lethal defect?
Andrew Mayo, UK

I feel like those people were people that I know. Thoughts of how they felt in those few seconds of knowing their death was imminent, did they finish all the unfinished work, speak all the unspoken words! I wish I could tell people to have patience and a deep-rooted belief that their loved ones are in peace now, but someone tell me HOW to be patient in the ache of missing a loved one!
Mona Abdallah, Egypt

I don't know what can I say... My American friend's husband was on the plane. I am so sorry¿ I am with you
Dolly-Barbara V_dy, Hungary

First, my heartfelt condolences to the victims of this disaster and their families. No words can compensate for this tragic loss. Second, it is troubling that since 1996, nearly 700 innocent people have perished while flying with respected airlines using highly regarded aircraft on a heavily travelled route. In each case, the aircraft failed disastrously while being used for the exact purpose it was intended. I am not trying to suggest conspiracy. I am suggesting that it is time to re-examine safety and aircraft reliability; putting those factors ahead of on-time ratings and cost savings. There is no greater cost than human life.
L, USA

When I first received the news of this disaster, I was at Gatwick Airport waiting for my brother to return home! Although it didn't take long for me to determine my brother was not on board the plane, it made me think that It could have been my brother's plane. I can't imagine what I would be thinking now if my brother was one of the missing, but I do know what I am thinking now.
Most importantly I would like to extend my condolences to all the families whom have lost loved ones. But next, I would like to know who or what is responsible for this disaster. There have been reports of an explosion, even before I knew of those reports, the thought of Bin Laden, the Islamic fundamentalist, came to mind. I do however think this is unlikely with the evidence at hand right now.
Malcolm Butler, UK

I have read the comments about the Y2K and clocks going back may have cause the problem. As far as I am aware all Aircraft systems run on GMT every day of the year because of the different time zones. So don't rumour monger, have a few minutes thought for the poor people and their families
JJ, Scotland

My condolences to the families of all those who lost their life.
Mamudu Yakubu, Nigeria/USA

I'm flying BA on Thursday and both flights are on 767s. After both incidents at the weekend I casually asked them today what they were doing to step up their checks on 767 engines. The response was "our checks are already good enough". Complacency at its worst.
Charlie, UK,

I was deeply shocked to read about this great tragedy. May the departed souls rest in peace and may the Waheguru give strength to the families to bear this great loss. My condolences to all.
Vicky Anand, Kuwait

All the families, relatives, and friends of the victims of flight 990: May God give you the strength to overcome this critical time. We all remember all the passengers and pray to almighty to take them to heaven and forgive them for every sin they committed while they were alive. God bless the people of this planet!!
Eyob, Ethiopia

I would like to extend my condolences to all the families who are having to endure the agony of losing loved ones May your loved ones rest in peace and may God be with you during this terrible time. But I am very surprised with the number of plane crashes are happening in these days, aren't you? I think serious investigation is required from all the companies involved in this business. Once again very sorry for relatives and friends of who are not with us any more :(
Ilyas Najeeb, England

Deep and sudden shock hit me when I heard the news, may god give the families of those victims the patient and power to cope with such tragedy. My prayers go to the victims and their families.
Nabil Heikal, UK

Let's get this terrible tragedy into perspective, amidst the usual media hysteria. Last week in the UK we were being told by the media that we were all going to die from taking a train, before that it was from eating genetically modified food, before that from eating beef...etc. etc. The reality is that air travel has an enviable safety record - consider the many millions of passengers that have safely traversed the transatlantic route in the last three years. Driving a car is much more of a gamble, but car crashes are mundane and hence not 'news worthy'. Speculation linking this crash with the TWA and Swissair crashes and a possible 'conspiracy' is inappropriate, inaccurate and unhelpful. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.
BF, UK

I want to express my condolences to the families of the casualties, and I hope the true reason of this tremendous disaster will be brought to light. I hope the JFK international airport reputation won't be compromised by this catastrophe
Mr. Arik Stanley Brill, Israel

I don't think you need to be a conspiracy theorist to find it rather odd that the authorities are falling over themselves to say 'there is no evidence' of a bomb. Er, well, actually there IS some reason to believe that theory - the circumstances of the loss, the threat received by the FAA - so to say otherwise is just a lie. And, if it wasn't a bomb, what was it? Planes like that do not just fall out of the sky at cruising altitude. Something strange is going on at JFK airport and I for one would like to know what it is...
SR Davidson, UK

With reference to the comment made above by the AA pilot, it is true that the flight path taken is the same as that taken by millions of aircraft every year. However, no matter how many times the public hears about the relative safety of air travel versus any other, we will always feel somewhat uneasy (if not terrified) when stepping onto an aircraft. Unexplained incidents like these, make matters far worse.
As the child of an American diplomat, I have flown more often than your average person. I always used to enjoy it. Now, I cancel even the most important business trips in order to avoid going by air. Rationally, I understand that flying is relatively safe. I suppose my irrational fear derives from the thought that - if something does go wrong - there is very little chance of survival. With other methods of transport, this is not the case.
Furthermore, it cannot be denied that there are some very serious concerns relating to overcrowding (this year's massive increase of near misses at UK airports), aircraft production (recent accusations made by "whistleblowers" on the Boeing assembly line, and the constant (it seems) victory of business pressures over reason and morality. I do feel horrible for the victims and hope that their deaths were - at the very least - swift and painless.
MP, UK

Egypt reacted too quickly with a denial of possible terrorist involvement. How could they know ? The FBI stated they believe it was not a terrorist act on the basis that a threat had not been received. Terrorists do not always leave calling cards. The true cause of the loss of this jet rests at the bottom of the ocean - let us hope it gives up the answer very quickly.
The media should be sensitive to the bereaved through reporting of facts, rather than opinions or speculation. Although natural disasters have claimed more lives this year, the crash is a legitimate public interest story. Millions use aeroplanes, and now need reassurance that the manufacturers and personnel in the industry put safety before profits.
Liam Coughlan, UK

I m sorry for all the victims of this terrible accident. I doubt if we ever find out what really happened. Somehow and despite huge progress in technology we are still not able to give answers to some incidents like this one. It is frustrating and I hope some answers can be given. Still we have no other real choice than to continue to fly like it or not.
Stelios, Greece

For all those who lost someone in this tragedy.. may God grant you peace that passes all understanding at this time..
J, UK

This is a tragedy, and a terrible shock. EgyptAir is a particularly safe airline, and this comes as a big surprise to me. For the passengers on that plane, RIP.
Alex Banks, International Transport Student. Wales

My heart aches for those awaiting hints that may indicate any discovery of any survivors! My prayers to the poor souls that had to face such a horrifying fate. My condolences to the world...May God bless us, our families, our friends. May God have mercy on us..
Lillie Haikal, Syria/Lebanon

Here we go again - the apprentice investigators are out in force speculating on the cause of this disaster. This doesn't help, and time would be better spent looking at things more objectively. Flying is risky business, but events on this scale actually occur very infrequently despite people's perception to the contrary. In the end, I would still rather fly than drive on a motorway in this country, anytime.
Charles Nullens, UK

Ejectors and parachutes should be available on every aircraft. To me this crash is very disgusting. What an unfortunate incident?
Chane Assefa, Ethiopia

My heart goes to every family whether from the united states or Egypt who have lost any members in this disaster. I wish Allah gives them the ability to withstand their grief. And for EgyptAir I tell them although you do your best efforts we still need more from you.
Manal, Egypt

How thoughtless of people to immediately jump to the conclusion that this was caused by clocks going back. All aircraft systems work to UTC time and so would not be effected. Give people time to reflect on the loss before speaking so ignorantly.
Tony Buckley, UK

My deepest condolences for the families and friends of the victims. This is tragedy that touched the soul of every Egyptian. We are all mourning these looses
Nahla Fadl, Egypt

May heart goes to the victims of "Egyptair flight 990".May their soul rest in perfect peace. As we search for the cause of this great human tragedy, I ask, what might be done to prevent reoccurrence?
Tajudeen Isiaka, Nigeria

It is sad that families relatives and friends are now mourning their departed ones. My profound condolences to all those bereaved. Let us give time for the experts to tell us the cause of this other one.Otherwise a sense of risk is beginning to develop anytime we talk about JFK .
William, Kenya

I am very sorry, I hope some of them be still alive. So please keep searching. God help us all.
Sahereh, Iran

What a loss! My deepest sympathy to all those that have lost their loved ones. I mourn with you all, for indeed this is a loss for the entire world. May God guide you all during this difficult period.
Gershom Chilukusha, Zambian in Holland

I'm concerned about the comment made by Frank Lee of Canada insinuating that perhaps the Israeli's were behind this very tragic event, what a disgusting anti-Semitic comment.
Dave, USA

My deepest condolences for all the families and the rescue teams. The dead will always be remembered in our hearts, we too lost a member of the family. Only God will help us all move along from these difficult moments! We hope that the governments will take serious measures to prevent accidents of this kind. It is such horrible tragedies. Our hearts, prayers and thoughts go out to all the families of the victims... may we receive good news in reference to any survivors. God bless.
Rupa Hari Singh, Guyana, South America

Deep sadness and extreme consolation for the families of all the victims
Mohamed Sultan, United Arab Emirates

Something is very unusual here. This is too coincidental. TWA Flight 800, the Swissair Flight, and Egypt Air Flight 990 are going to raise some new questions I don't buy the 'mechanical failure' excuses on these flights. And, it is time for the public to demand some explanations.
Dave Adams, USA

I feel deeply saddened by the crash of EgyptAir. I don't think anyone can really fathom the immense loss the families of those passengers have suffered. Neither can we truly imagine how traumatic and sudden death came to those passengers aboard that EgyptAir! As regular traveller from Houston to Africa, I know what it feels like when a plane has to make a sudden dive to get out of turbulence. It's really sad that those people had to perish without seeing the new millennium, just around the corner. May we pray for God to remember their souls in His Eternity!
DaEtim Edem Johnson, UYO - Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

My heart goes out to those who lost their lives during the Taiwan 921 quake, the Paddington train crash, and those on board on this plane. It seems that tragedy is everywhere...I hope those who had suffered are now all at rest.
ChiLin Yeh, Taiwan

Very unfortunate incident. We convey from the bottom of our heart a great feel of sympathy to the family and relatives of the victims. We are eager to receive a good news about the survivors in this crash. Very Very Sorry.......
Madan Shastri, Roopa and Nehal, USA

I'm an aero engineer who can only say that a tremendous amount of effort is expended in the design of passenger jets to make them safe. Failsafe structure and backup systems are tested and tested again under every possible extreme condition before the aeroplane is allowed into service. When such a tragedy occurs we wonder what could have possibly been missed. Obviously something was and lets hope we can find out what so that this particular event will not be repeated
Roger Sayer, USA

A disaster... definitely a tragedy. All one can say right now is that we all hope happy memories replace the sadness in your hearts. Our condolences to everyone who knew people on that plane, families, relatives, friends, colleagues, everyone! God bless you all.
Gina, Egypt

I am really very sad as all Egyptians and Americans are because of this tragedy. We can do nothing except asking god to gather all of the victims in heaven . Finally, all Jordanians and myself send our sympathies and condolences to all of the victims families and relatives whether they were Egyptians or Americans or any other nationality.
Mamdouh Al Kharabsheh, Jordan

I would like to extend my condolences to all the families who are having to endure the agony of losing loved ones under the spotlight of the world media. May your loved ones rest in peace and may God be with you during this terrible time.
Tara Kelly, England

Words seem so inadequate at a time like this. My prayers and thoughts are with the victims, relatives and friends of this tragic accident.
Camille McCabe, England

I really feel very sad for the victims. Just can't properly express how sad I'm feeling. But: I don't think it's a good idea for the Egyptians to have the U.S. do all the investigation. First, they didn't (want to??) succeed in the two earlier crashes, second the rumours about EAB. I'd rather see somebody else do this job... Again to all the relatives/friends/families: my thoughts are with you.
N. Kuehl, Germany

The crash of three flights leaving J.F. Kennedy airport in just the last few years tells us something - I think the US government should think seriously about changing the name of the airport. My deepest sympathies go out to the relatives of all those on board.
Tilahun Berhane, Ethiopia

I feel sorry for those who died in the Egypt Air Crash. I have noticed that the aeroplane crashes over the last few years have increased significantly world-wide. Is anyone doing some serious research in this matter? Ten years ago or so we hear about a plane crash once in every three or four years. In other words, it was not very common. Today you hear it at least twice a year!!!. I am not sure why is it happening so frequently.
Jiju, UK

Crash occurred just after the clocks went back. Could this be the first serious Y2K incident?
A, UK

It is interesting that times given for the crash are all between 01:00 and 02:00 yesterday - the hour which was repeated when the clocks went back in the Northern hemisphere. Surely the possibility of electronic 'confusion' is obvious?
Peter McKenzie, UK

No-one bats an eyelid at the thousands of deaths that occur due to other forms of mass transport every day. The only difference with an aviation accident is that the numbers are concentrated. Millions of people travel by aircraft every day and the aviation industry has a justifiably glowing safety record. The conspiracy theorists should perhaps consider this before jumping to purely reactionary and misinformed conclusions.
Danny Forrest, Sweden

My deepest condolences to the families, and the friends of the dead. We will remember you in our prayers.
Rashid Farah, Somaliland

Re. Annie, USA . I also heard the report about the flight landing at EAB. But I also heard the pentagon say that it had not. It would have not got anywhere near EAB, the air force would have escorted it away. I also think that the crash was a bomb, the only other thing that could have made the flight loose so much height so quickly was an in flight deployment of the thrust reverse. My heart goes out the families of the people on board.
Alexander, England

My heart goes out to all those poor passengers, during the last few minutes of the drastic drop of flight 990 into the freezing ocean.
Bhagwan Chugani, Hong Kong

My heartfelt sympathy to the families of those lost in this tragic accident. My wife and daughters flew from JFK in a 767 just 3 weeks ago and "there but for the grace of God go I".
Michael Howard, UK

I would like to ask to all true Christian around the world to pray to God in Name of Jesus for the Egyptian people in as they are facing they are facing this tragedy.
Jose Af Lopes, Brazil/Egypt

Even with the dire safety record displayed by the aircraft, manufacturers will still not admit liability for defective design. This safety record seems akin to tobacco manufacturers' stance on 'non addiction' to tobacco. Profit within the huge multi-nationals always outweighs the public interest of safety.
The Preacher, UK

Seems to be an immediate down-playing of any likelihood of criminal activity, despite the previous warnings from the FAA. Tends to make one think something is being covered up already. Reports of a suspected explosion are being damped, but that plane dropped like a rock. Flying out of N.Y. is getting to be a bit of a gamble it would appear.
P Halliwell, Canada

Such a terrible feeling knowing men, women and children are lost so unexpectedly, you can only try and imagine how their families and friends are having to cope with such a sudden tragedy - my heart goes out to them
Keith Peck, England

Anyone who has flown Egyptair regularly will know of their poor reliability and disregard for FAA rules. As an example an Egyptair flight from Sharm el Sheik last weekend that was over booked allowed people to stand at the rear of the aircraft!! Sadly, it was just a matter of time before their luck ran out.
A, Cairo, Egypt

May the families of the passengers and crew somehow find the strength to make it through this horrendous time. God bless you all.
Nicky Isaacs, South Africa

What a tragedy!!!! My deepest sympathy to the families concerned. My prayers are with you in mind
Grace Chakufwa, Zimbabwe

It is another sad day for the aviation industry I hope that there is a speedy discovery of the cause of this incident. I don't think that there will be anything sinister found, sadly it will be an unfortunate accident. The condolences of my family to the families of those lost in this sad tragedy. May those that are lost rest in peace.
Peter McLarty, Australia

I am sorry about that. Each day the danger in air transportation became our disaster. I wish for all families' support that moment is difficult but we haven't any choice. I extend my sincere condolences to the families of the lost, and may Allah and God give them relief and peace during this trial. And the Air Company has to guarantee more security in their planes. Don't think about money and competition only.
Jorge Tembe, Mozambique

First my family's condolences and prayer to the families who had relatives on flight 990.
I find it rather odd that three airliners three years in a row coming out of JFK have crashed. I can't help but wonder if this is a fluke or not. All three of these airliners crashed with one hour after leaving JFK. I guess I'm wondering if these are accidents at all.
SJ Turnbull, Canada

My deepest condolences for all the families and the rescue teams. The dead will always be remembered in our hearts. God, Allah will help us all move along from these difficult moments! Let's hope that there will be no more accidents of this kind and governments will take serious measures to prevent such horrible tragedies.
Fassih Hashem, Syria-Canada

It is a unexpected accident, May Almighty God give peace to the dying soul of so many people and give strength and courage to their relatives and friends.
Talman Chhetri, Bhutan

They say life goes on, just give yourself time to mourn, and accept, and to heal. Though none of that offers much comfort right now with the sorrow and loss that we all feel I wish all of the families and friends strength and love during this most difficult time. May God embrace the souls of the victims and grant them eternal peace.
Judith R. Gandy, USA

What a terrible accident. May God offer a comforting blessing to the families of the victims.
Getachew, Ethiopian in Sweden

May God give the family members the strength & courage. My deepest condolences with the relatives of the ill-fated aircraft.
Satpinder Sidhu, USA

Having just returned from my l4th trip to Europe, I don't think there will be a 15th. God Bless the families and friends of the casualties.
M. R. Hoffman, USA

My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. It is certainly a mystery why commercial aircraft leaving JFK are experiencing tragedies. Even with advanced technologies available to the investigation teams, it is still unknown why three flights went down in the same area in a short period of time. I think it is time to think seriously about this.
Shree, USA

Firstly, my condolences to the relatives and friends of the victims of this air crash. I would like to sound a note of caution to all spectators of this tragedy concerning the similar crashes on the TWA and Swiss Air flights. Whilst similarities can be seen between the three disasters, it is important to hold back from provoking a tabloid witch hunt against these companies and more specifically the aircraft manufacturers, Boeing.
The important thing now is to establish what actually happened to all 3 flights, and establish this quickly for the sake of those left behind who have the rest of their lives in front of them. Let the facts speak about the companies involved; speculation will do nothing but cheapen the memory of those who have perished and add to their relatives grief.
Duncan, UK

Could the Israelis have been behind this act in commemoration of Rabin's anniversary death???
Frank Lee, Canada

It is with shock and grief that I send my heartfelt condolences to all family members and friends of passengers aboard flight 990. May their souls rest in perfect peace.
Michael Alandu, Japan

I am really shocked. I have no language to express my thoughts. I can not understand how all near ones of grieved will bear this tragedy.
Asoke Kumar Bose, Canada

I heard one of the first reports on CNN at around 2:00am PST. There was mention that the plane stopped at Edwards Air Force Base after leaving LAX and then continued to New York. Did anyone else hear that report? I noticed that within a couple of hours there was no further mention of the plane stopping at EAB?
Annie, USA

I am really sad as all Egyptians are for this sudden tragedy. What we are really waiting for, is a serious investigation between the Egyptian and US authorities to come up with real answers as soon as possible to avoid such tragedies from happening again. Finally, all Egyptians and myself send our sympathies and condolences to all of the victims families and relatives whether they were Egyptians or Americans or any other nationality.
Mohamed El Nahas, Political Science student, Cairo University, Egypt

Passenger safety systems need to be improved amid signs growing complacency in the industry and increased air traffic.

Planes could be fitted with a passenger ejector device and parachutes so that inevitable glitches do not automatically result in mass tragedy.

As more people jet around, no effort should be spared to research and develop better safety.
Lawday, UK

What a terrible crash to happen!! Why are there so many crashes that occur from the New York area ??
Mike Luebke, Oregon

There is something suspicious...

TWA-800 crashed after departing from the JFK, Swiss Air crashed after departing from JFK, now Air Egypt...departing also from JFK. Can't anybody see the pattern?

It is a massive human tragedy,my heart with with families victims.
Ahmed Diab, Australia

We were very saddened to hear about the crash of Egypt airlines. We pray to Allah to give them all a place in heavens and provide strength to their loved ones to bear this loss.
Maliha Nazeer, US

I am deeply saddened by the tragic accident and loss of life. It must be an extremely distressful period for the near and dear ones of those who lost their lives. May God give them strength to overcome their grief. My heartfelt condolences to them.

I also hope we would be able to establish as to what caused this tragic accident.
Santosh Rawat, an Indian national living in Cairo

I feel an unusually strong sadness about this airplane crash. It will be very interesting to find out the cause of this crash. Perhaps it's just the timing ... a peaceful, quiet Sunday morning breakfast time on the West Coast while those poor passengers float in a cold sea ...

Much sadness.
Judi Fiest, Castle Rock, WA

Our deepest condolences to the families of the victims.
Abhishek Bindlish & Pooja Jhanji, India

During the past decade Boeing has amalgamated with the other main aircraft manufacturer, McDonnell Douglas. These two aircraft manufacturers were the "biggest and main kids on the block".

Also, during this period, competition has emerged from European manufacturers. Airbus and its pending mergers with other European partners is now providing substantial competition. As international competition heats up, one has to wonder about the withholding or delaying, of information advisories regarding potential safety issues such as arcing of wiring, (implicated in the Swissair crash) and the ignition of fuel vapours, (the alleged cause of the TWA crash). The speedy publication or release of safety advisories may have expensive implications and cause such companies to temporarily lose the economic edge.
Mrs. Pat van der Veer, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Another sad air disaster on the same air route across the north Atlantic. Lets hope the investigation uncovers the real reason as quickly as possible, so the relatives of the victims can have their minds put at rest. I also hope a pattern isn't emerging, after the loss of TWA 800 and Swissair 111 in the same region.

I worked for an American carrier for 8 years and was involved with dealing with relatives of air crashes during that time. My deepest sympathies go out to the relatives of all those on board, and may the souls of the passengers and crew rest in peace.
David Dorrell, London, UK

It is a big tragedy for all passengers and crew members and I pray for every one! However, I get scared taking any flight leaving New York-JFK in the direction of Europe.

We have now had three airplane crashes and no one is enlightened. The governments of France (TWA 800), Switzerland and Egypt should force the US Government right now to bring more light in the issue of safety and any related areas of New York's airports.
Dr. Volkmar Scharf-Katz, US

It's really said when ever a commercial airliner crashes. I myself am an aviation enthusiast and plan to be a pilot. I am now waiting for the possible causes of the crash. My deepest sympathies with the relatives of the ill-fated aircraft.
Azeem Khan, US

Your reference to the similarities of the flight paths of EgyptAir 990 and SwissAir 111 are unrelated and unnecessary. The flight paths of thousands of aircraft traverse these routes without incident and you have spent not one farthing on ink regarding this fact. However, you and others in your industry choose to compare, solely for the purpose of sensationalist press, these two unfortunate and totally unrelated flights.
Gene Atwell, American Airlines JFK International Captain, B-767/757, US

After another tragedy involving a Boeing/MD plane, doubts must be arising about their safety. These accidents seem to be involving relatively new developments of older planes.
Dr Matthew Murphy, Ireland

From Allah we come and surely to Allah is our return.

I extend my sincere condolences to the families of the lost, and may Allah give them relief and peace during this trial.
Nadim S. Ali, Atlanta, Ga. USA

We now have had three flights in the last five years leaving Kennedy airport and crashing into the Atlantic shortly afterwards. The cause of the first two, the TWA and the Swissair flights, are still shrouded in mystery. It is still too early to tell what may have caused the EgyptAir crash, but it is beginning to look like a sinister pattern is developing.
John M. Baker, Bangkok, Thailand

I do not know what can be said in these circumstances but my prayers are with every body on the plane as well as the rescue team and all.
Farazli, Egypt

What an unfortunate incident... our hearts, prayers and thoughts go out to all the families of the victims... may we receive good news in reference to any survivors. God bless.
Anon, Texas, US