Pilot dies in Queensland light plane crash

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A pilot has died after his light plane crashed in bushland in Queensland's north around 9.30am this morning. The aircraft was overdue to land in Ayr, south of Townsville. After an extensive search through rugged bushland, police located the plane in Shirbourne, 38 kilometres west of Ayr.

The pilot, a 67-year-old Townsville man who was the only occupant of the aircraft, was found dead at the scene. Police will investigate the circumstances of the crash and a report will be prepared for the coroner. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau was notified of the fatal crash but has referred the incident to Recreational Aviation Australia.

RA Aus will support Queensland Police with its investigation, the body's chief executive Matt Bouttell said. "I wish to send our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased pilot," Mr Bouttell told AAP.

"It's early stages but... RA Aus has offered our assistance in order to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident."