Police have spent the day searching for a missing aircraft in the far north of the state after a witness reported seeing a plane in difficulties, NSW Police say.
Shortly after 10.45am today, a member of public saw an aircraft in difficulties near Limpinwood.
Police from the Tweed Byron Local Area Command and other emergency services responded and determined that an ultralight aircraft had taken off from Murwillumbah Airport at 10am.
The aircraft, with a 72-year-old male pilot and only occupant, did not reach its destination.
Police have concentrated their search on an area of bushland between Tyalgum and Chilligham.
Officers have searched in vehicles, on foot and with the assistance of aircraft.
The land search was called off about 6pm when darkness fell and it is expected to resume at first light tomorrow. Two helicopters are continuing the search over night.
A police presence will remain in the area this evening with a renewed ground search expected to be undertaken from the earliest opportunity tomorrow.
Australian Search & Rescue (AusSAR) in Canberra has been notified and are co-ordinating the search.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers.
