The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched a probe into the crash of a Beechcraft B200 Super King Air aircraft, which killed all five people onboard after hitting a shopping centre in Melbourne.

The aircraft took place shortly after taking off from Essendon Airport in Melbourne.

The flight was en route to King Island in Tasmania, Australia, on a charter basis.

"ATSB is expected to complete its investigation by next February."

Despite killing the pilot and all four passengers, no-one was killed or injured on the ground during the incident.

As part of its investigation, ATSB has already deployed a team of four investigators to the site, who will be examining the site and wreckage, collect recorded data such as radio and radar, and interview witnesses.

ATSB is expected to complete its investigation by next February.

However, Victoria police reports that the aircraft appeared to have experienced an engine failure shortly after take-off.

The Australian pilot flying the B200 Super King Air aircraft had been investigated over a ‘near collision’ last year, reported BBC.