At least six people died when a small private plane crashed into trees in Virginia, US, authorities said.

Virginia Police said the accident occurred as the plane tried to land at Shannon Airport, EFE news reported.

The causes of the crash was being investigated, the police said, reports IANS.

Police spokesperson Les Tyler said it seemed the plane was trying to land and then tried to abort the landing.

The plane hit trees while trying to take off and burst into flames with the six passengers inside.

Authorities are yet to disclose the identities of the victims, but have revealed that they are not from Virginia.