KLM will not fly over E. Ukraine

Dutch airline KLM has instructed pilots to avoid Eastern Ukrainian airspace following the crash of a plane believed to be Malaysia Airlines flight 17. The Boeing 777 was allegedly brought down by a missile strike in the Donetsk region of the Ukraine in an area controlled by pro-Russian separatists. "Although not yet officially confirmed by Malaysia Airlines, it is with great regret that KLM has learnt about the possible incident with flight MH17, codeshare KL4103, of Malaysia Airlines from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur," KLM said in a statement.

"We are in contact with Malaysia Airlines to obtain further information. As a precautionary measure KLM avoids flying over the concerned territory." The airline joins both Lufthansa and Air France in rerouting affected flights. Both Air France and KLM are owned by the same parent company. People concerned about loved ones onboard Flight 17 may contact Malaysia Airlines emergency number, +60 378 841 234."