Investigation at air crash site

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/england/lincolnshire/7904573.stm

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Air accident investigators are examining the wreckage of a light aircraft which crashed in Lincolnshire, killing the pilot.

The single-seater plane came down at 1100 GMT on Saturday, about 150ft (46m) from the end of the runway at Fenland Airfield in Holbeach St Johns.

The 50-year-old pilot, thought to be from Spalding, issued a mayday call shortly after taking off.

Senior inspector Tim Atkinson said the investigation was in its early stages.

'Gathering evidence'

"It's much too early to begin to speculate as to the possible cause, " said Mr Atkinson, from the Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB).

"We were informed of the accident very promptly after it happened and we will be speaking to witnesses who will be able to help with the investigation.

"I believe the accident happened shortly after take-off. Over the coming hours and days, we will be gathering as much evidence as can to determine what has happened."

Insp Andy Ham from Lincolnshire Police said the plane was registered to a man who lived near Spalding.

"At this moment in time, there is no reason to suggest any suspicious circumstances.

"Initial information suggests, as soon as the pilot set off, he made this mayday call and attempted to land."