Authorities start investigation into Emiliano Sala’s missing flight

An investigation into whether the missing flight that was carrying Premier League footballer Emiliano Sala was properly licensed is taking place.

The Piper PA-46 Malibu disappeared on Monday with Cardiff City's new £15m signing and pilot Dave Ibbotson on board.

A search near Guernsey was called off on Thursday afternoon despite pleas from Sala's sister.

The Air Accident Investigation Branch said it had launched a probe.

Aviation sources said Dave Ibbotson, 59 had only a private pilot’s license and worked as a heating engineer and disco DJ to fund his passion for planes.

Dave Ibbotson's license will be investigated along with the legality of the flight, it is claimed.

The Civil Aviation Authority said the aircraft was registered in the US, so fell under its regulations.

US law states private pilots cannot make a profit by carrying passengers.

Aviation consultant Alastair Rosenchein said: "The one issue is whether a single-engine aircraft should be flying at night, in winter, over water, and with passengers.

"This is the real issue - it is a really bad combination."

Rosenchein explained that if the engine failed, the pilot would need to land - and at night he would not have visual clues to rely on.

Argentine striker Sala, 28, signed for Cardiff from Nantes last weekend and was traveling between the cities on Monday night.

At 19:15 GMT, Ibbotson made a request to descend, before losing contact with Jersey air traffic control.

An extensive search took place, but Guernsey's harbormaster explained a "difficult" decision was made to call it off, saying the chances of survival were "extremely remote".

However, Romina Sala said she feels her brother is still alive and pleaded with rescuers not to give up hope.

Cardiff City's owner Vincent Tan said: "Monday evening's news shook everyone at Cardiff City FC to the core.

Three planes and five helicopters racked up 80 hours combined flying time looking for the plane, working alongside two lifeboats and other passing ships.