Galway search called off after false alarm

Reports of a light aircraft crash off the coast of Galway have been declared a false alarm.

A search and rescue operation was launched before 2pm this afternoon following reports from a member of the public that a small plane had crashed into the sea.

The Aran Islands’ lifeboat along with lifeboats from Doolin and Galway Bay were involved in the operation which was assisted by the Shannon-based Coast Guard helicopter.

The operation was called off after 3pm following a comprehensive search and the incident was declared a "false alarm with good intent".