The plane had been approaching Albury from Sydney about 3.45pm on Sunday.

The drone was spotted about 100 feet below the aircraft and the control tower was notified, along with police.

Officers attended the area but could not find the device or person controlling it.

Detective Inspector Winston Woodward said drones were banned within 5.5 kilometres of airports, but the device was much closer. 

“If you do operate a drone outside of those guidelines, you are liable to federal prosecution,” he said. 

“It’s a Commonwealth offence to activate a drone within the restricted airspace.”

Detective Inspector Woodward said there was no reason to think it had been a malicious incident.

“The pilot said it was about 100 feet away from the aircraft,” he said.

“The trouble is pilots may have to take evasive action at any time and 100 feet is not enough distance for them to do so.

“If there’s no malice involved, that’s fine, but it’s still an offence.

“For obvious reasons a drone can’t interact with an aircraft.

“You can imagine if a drone flew into the jets or the propellers of a commercial aircraft – it could have a catastrophic outcome.”

The object had three blades and was grey and white.

John Saros of the Albury Hobby Centre said there were restrictions on where drones could be used and altitude limits.

Drones are banned from travelling more than 120 metres above the ground.

Staff at the Albury business explain the restrictions to customers, but Mr Saros said some other outlets did not.

Because of the location of the airport, Mr Saros said drones were effectively banned in the city. 

“Most hobby stores will tell you what to do, what not to do, where to fly and where not to fly,” he said. 

“There are leaflets to show you the rules, including not flying within 30 metres of people or buildings and in built up areas. 

“Unfortunately a lot of places don't give you that information.”

Anyone with information can call (02) 6023 9299 or 1800 333 000.