Search for pilot after plane crashes in wilderness area

The plane took off from Bankstown Airport in Sydney's southwest on Thursday and was on its way back when an emergency location transmitter was activated about 4.30pm.

The wreckage was spotted from the air in the Budawang National Park, about 25km north of Batemans Bay on the NSW South Coast at about 5.30pm.

The crash site could not be accessed by vehicle or on foot, NSW Police said.

Budawang National Park is declared a wilderness area, with hiking, river camping, swimming and scenic views for advanced, well-equipped travellers.

The pilot is believed to have been the only person on board.