The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) said the Piper PA-28-161 aircraft, carrying two passengers, made a Mayday call at 2.58pm, just eight minutes after taking off from the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport.

“CAAM’s Kuala Lumpur Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre was activated at 3.10pm for the rescue operation.

“An investigation will be conducted,” said CAAM CEO Norazman Mahmud in a statement.

Selangor fire and rescue department director Wan Razali Wan Ismail identified those onboard as the pilot, Rolando Barba Jr, and trainee pilot Ridz Farhan Ridzwan. They were reported to be safe.

He said the department received a distress call at 4.13pm and three fire engines with five officers and 17 fire fighters from Klang Utara, Port Klang and Klang Selatan stations were sent to the scene.

The firemen arrived at 4.42pm but could not see any signs of fire.