Search called off for missing NSW plane

The search for a missing plane off the NSW north coast has been called off with experts determining the pilot could not have survived.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority announced the hunt for the pilot ended just after 1pm AEDT on Tuesday.

A large-scale search was launched on Monday night after the Cessna failed to return to Lismore airport after taking off for a short flight just before 4.30pm.

Radar tapes reviewed on Tuesday morning reveal the plane was last spotted about six miles northeast of Byron Bay.

Despite five helicopters, a light plane and two rescue boats searching the area, no trace of the plane or the missing man was found.

The search was concluded after expert medical advice determined the pilot would not have survived in the water past midday.

NSW Police Marine Area Command will stay in the area and conduct further investigations.