WA pilot identified as Revel Downing after dying in NSW light plane crash

Two men killed in a light plane crash in regional NSW have been identified as experienced aviation enthusiasts who had travelled across the country to purchase the aircraft.

Revel Downing, 58, and a 63-year-old man died when the kit-built plane crashed shortly after take-off near Scone Aerodrome in the NSW Upper Hunter on Friday afternoon.

WATCH ABOVE: Revel Downing identified as one of the men killed in tragic plane crash

Flight tracking data indicates the aircraft climbed to about 145m before rapidly losing speed and altitude, crashing seconds later.

It is believed the plane entered into an uncontrollable spin before hitting the ground.

It’s understood the pair had travelled from WA to inspect and buy the recreational aircraft, worth about $38,000.

Emergency services were called to Bunnan Rd, near Scone Racecourse and Scone Aerodrome, just before 2pm to reports a light plane had come down.

Fire and Rescue NSW crews remained at the wreckage site for hours after the crash, with authorities reporting fuel had spilled from the destroyed aircraft.

A crime scene was established and specialist investigators began examining the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Recreational Aviation Australia and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) were notified.

The ATSB said the aircraft was a kit-built plane operating under Australia’s recreational aviation system.

While the bureau has been informed of the crash, it does not investigate accidents involving recreational aircraft.

Investigations into the circumstances leading up to the fatal crash are continuing.