The incident happened during a “short flight experience”.
Detective Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin, Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “Yesterday lunchtime, Tuesday, June 30, a small aircraft took off from North Weald airfield on what was expected to be a short journey.
“The two-seat Cessna aircraft was carrying out a short flight experience but sadly it did not return.
“At 12.30pm we were contacted by members of the public who reported a small aircraft had crashed in a field off Mill Lane, Ongar.
“Sadly we can now confirm that the two people on board have died.”
Officers said formal identification is yet to take place.
This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.
Please refresh the page for the fullest version.
You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app. You can also follow us on WhatsApp and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.
