THE close-knit town of Burrumbuttock is in mourning after the death of a man in an aircraft crash yesterday. 

The pilot died when his aircraft crashed into a paddock at the rear of the Farmers Inn Hotel about 5.40pm. It is believed the pilot struck power lines before crashing. He had not been formally identified last night, but several residents said he lived in the area and was well known. 

One resident, who did not want to be named, said he had heard the crash from about 100 metres away. 

“It sounded like it hit a line, then there was a big thud,” he said. 

“It was loud enough for me to go ‘what was that? When I heard there was no motor I knew he was in trouble. He’s a regular ... every Sunday flying over.” 

The aircraft landed upside down and was badly damaged. 

About 25 emergency service workers attended the crash site and people gathered at the Farmers Inn after the incident. 

Graham Beesley said he had been at home when he heard “a couple of pops” followed by a loud crash. Electricity to the town was cut and had not been fully restored late last night.

A police investigation is under way, with the crime scene to be examined by forensic specialists.

Maureen Beesley said there was an aircraft that regularly flew at low altitude over her house every weekend.

“It’s concerning that he’s from the area,” another man, who did not want to be named, said.

“It’s such a small community. Everyone knows everyone. Word spread quickly through the town and other towns throughout the area.”

Kathryn Mitsch said everything had happened suddenly.

“The power flickered and it all happened quickly,” she said.

Albury police officers will assist investigators from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.