A light aircraft crashed Sunday off the coast of Ras Al Khaimah, one of the UAE's seven emirates, killing two people, the Emirati aviation authority said.

"A light aircraft operated by the Jazirah Aviation Club crashed into the sea, claiming the lives of both the pilot and co-pilot," said the General Civil Aviation Authority in a statement.

It added that an investigation had been launched "to determine the cause" of the deadly crash.

The statement said the victims were of Indian and Pakistani nationality.

"The crash occurred shortly after takeoff, near the Cove Rotana Hotel along the beach," the aviation authority said.

"Initial reports suggest the glider lost radio contact and later attempted an emergency landing. Despite resuscitation efforts, both occupants succumbed to their injuries," it added.

Ras Al Khaimah is located in the northernmost part of the United Arab Emirates.