A pilot has died and his passenger has been taken to hospital following a plane crash in southern Scotland.

The pilot, a 40-year-old man, was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics after the incident, police said.

His 42-year-old passenger, also a man, has been left in a "critical condition" and remains under specialist care.

A Police Scotland released on Thursday evening reads: "We received a report of a light aircraft having crashed in the East Fortune area around 4.55pm on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

"Emergency services attended, however the 40-year-old male pilot was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin is aware.

"The 42-year-old male passenger was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where he is described as being in a critical condition.

"Enquiries remain ongoing and the Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) has been notified."