US to help Indonesia investigate Lion Air plane crash

The United States will assist Indonesia in its investigation of a plane crash that occurred early Monday morning near Jakarta, the State Department said Monday.

“The United States extends its deepest condolences to those who lost family and loved ones in the October 29 plane crash in Indonesia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Indonesia in this time of sorrow. Preparations are underway to assist the Indonesian government in its investigation of this tragic accident,” State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement.

{mosads}Lion Air flight 610 took off early Monday from Jakarta and crashed into the sea after attempting to circle back and return to Jakarta, likely killing all 189 people that were aboard the plane. 

The flight was originally destined for Pangkal Pinang, a city on the island of Bangka. It crashed 13 minutes after taking off.  

Marine Brig. Gen. Bambang Suryo, director of operations for Indonesia’s search and rescue agency, said Monday that he suspects all passengers are dead, according to The New York Times.

Lion Air said in a statement earlier Monday that the airplane had been in service since August and was “operationally feasible.”

“Lion Air is concerned with the incident and will work with the relevant authorities and agencies on this matter,” the airline added.