A major search operation is underway in the Bass Strait after a light aircraft with two Tasmanian residents on board failed to reach its mainland destination.
The plane took off from George Town Airport around 12:45pm on Saturday, bound for Leongatha in regional Victoria, with plans to continue on to Central Western NSW.
Authorities have confirmed they were alerted by family members around 5pm last night when the aircraft failed to arrive as expected.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is leading the operation, with Tasmania Police providing helicopter and vessel resources to search the coast near George Town.
“AMSA’s Melbourne rescue jet is conducting overwater searching of Bass Strait, supported by vessels, including Victoria Police,” a Tasmania Police spokesperson said.
“Residents in Tasmania’s north are advised there will be ongoing aerial search activities in the area today.”
Spirit of Tasmania operator TT-Line said the ferry was diverted to the last recorded location of the missing plane but was subsequently relieved from the operation.
George Town Airport, located around 50 kilometres north of Launceston, handles private and chartered aircraft.
