An experienced pilot who died alongside two teenage boys in a plane crash has been identified as beloved family man Leo Howard.
An 18-year-old boy, a 19-year-old boy and Mr Howard, 57, were all killed when the plane plunged into the ocean at Long Bay, about 80km south of Adelaide, on Friday.
Mr Howard is listed as the pilot responsible for all aerobatic flights at the local training centre Goolwa Air.
The website describes him as a 'highly experienced aerobatic pilot with a passion for precision flying and a strong focus on safety'.
'Leo was a highly respected and experienced pilot. He was a loved family man, son, father and brother,' Mr Howard's sister Mercedes told The Advertiser.
'We are devastated at this time and send our condolences to the other families involved.'
Friend and trainee Ben Clarke also shared a gushing tribute to Mr Howard.
'Rest in peace my friend. Thank you for showing me a world I had always dreamt of,' he wrote beside a photo of the two smiling at a camera while in a plane.
South Australian Police (SAPOL) said officers received reports of the crash near Goolwa South, approximately 80km south of Adelaide, about 4.20pm on Friday.
Mr Howard launched High Spirits Liquor several years ago to sell aviation gin, according to The Advertiser.
South Australian Police (SAPOL) said officers received reports of the crash near Goolwa South about 4.20pm on Friday.
'Police and emergency services responded immediately,' a statement said.
'The wreckage of the plane has been brought to shore.'
Water Police, a helicopter, Sea Rescue and three Country Fire Service vehicles assisted in the massive search and rescue operation.
The crash was witnessed by several beach-goers, with one bystander capturing the terrifying moment the plane plunged into the ocean.
The sound of the plane's engine caused couple Jamie Dicker and Ashlee Venaman, who were camping at the Murray Mouth with their children, to look up.
'And then we watched as it did four or five circles before it dived into the water with it's nose down,' Mr Dicker told The Advertiser.
Mr Howard's sister Mercedes said the family is devastated.
Water police, a helicopter, Sea Rescue and three Country Fire Service vehicles assisted in the massive search and rescue operation on Friday.
'Then as soon as the plane hit the water, there was a splash and then the plane disappeared... The water was choppy and it was deep.
'But I think we would have jumped in if we saw anyone out there, but we didn’t.'
Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) investigators attended the scene on Saturday and investigations into the crash are ongoing.
Four investigators, who have specialist expertise as pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers and in human factors, are due to inspect the scene.
Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.