A 52 year old Launceston man has been severely burnt in a single engine light plane crash near Hagley this morning.

Police and emergency services were called to the scene near Westwood Road, Hagley, about 11.20am today.

The man – the pilot and only occupant of the plane -has been seriously injured and taken to the Launceston General Hospital. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter remains on standby.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has been advised and will undertake an investigation.

Anyone with information who may have seen the aircraft near Hagley just before the crash should call Launceston Police on 131444.