An investigation is underway following a fatal plane crash near Cessnock.

Emergency services were called to Sawyers Gully about 4.30pm today (Wednesday 8 July 2015), after reports a light plane had crashed into dense bushland.

Officers from Central Hunter Local Area Command attended and located the plane well-alight.

The fire was extinguished before the body of the pilot was located inside.

The man has not been formally identified.

No one else was injured.

A crime scene has been established and will be examined by specialist forensic officers.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.