Search for light plane seen crashing into the sea

"Initial information indicates the pilot was the only recorded occupant of the aircraft, however, police are continuing to confirm the number of people on board," NT Police said in a statement.

NT Police said officers had reached the area and were conducting searches, but had not located any aircraft wreckage or people in the water.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has been notified, and police are working with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to confirm the circumstances of the crash.

An authority spokesperson told AAP one of its rescue jets had been deployed to assist NT Police in the search.