Russian passenger plane reported crashed in Egypt's Sinai desert

A Russian passenger plane has crashed over central Sinai, according to the Egyptian prime ministers office.

The Kogalymavia A321 was traveling from the Egyptian resort of Sharm El Sheikh en route to St Petersburg with over 200 people on board.

Egyptian air traffic control lost contact with the aircraft shortly after takeoff.

The plane was carrying mainly Russian tourists a search for the missing aircraft is underway.

According to Egyptian authorities the plane developed a mechanical failure.