Police say the aircraft suffered ’catastrophic engine failure’ shortly after taking off from Essendon airport around 9am local time today (February 21).
Early media reports said passengers were heading to Tasmania’s King Island on what was a private charter with a local company. King Island is a popular golfing destination.
It is believed the pilot tried to return to the airport but crashed into the Direct Factory Outlets shopping centre.
Debris from the crash forced the closure of a nearby road, while investigators also suspended flights from Essedon.
