Russian airbase in occupied Crimea rocked by 'exploding plane' as horrified tourists watch

The cause of the explosion has not yet been verified, but Russian sources have claimed that it was caused when a military aircraft carrying ammunition exploded after overtaking the runway Smoke rises from the site of the explosion (

Image: WILL STEWART)

A Russian air base in Crimea was rocked by a colossal explosion as horrified tourists watched.

The exact cause of the explosion has not yet been confirmed, but Russian sources claimed it was due to the explosion of a plane carrying munitions after overrunning the runway and crashing in a cliff.

Video from the scene shows noxious smoke billowing from the crash site at Belbek airport in Sevastopol in occupied Crimea.

Despite speculation, there were no immediate reports of Ukrainian missile strikes on the plane or airport.

The incident comes after Russian troops were forced to withdraw from a strategically important city in Ukraine, dealing a blow to Putin's plans.

Smoke billowing from the site (

Picture:

WILL STEWART)

Vacationers look on in shock (

Picture:

WILL STEWART)

It was not clear if there were any casualties, but Russian sources reported that the pilot managed to escape from the plane.

The accident was observed by residents of nearby beaches, who saw the catastrophic explosion engulf the site.

Although the exact cause is not known, the airport is used as a base for a variety of military aircraft.

Crimean Governor Mikhail Razvozhaev called the explosion an "extraordinary situation".