Southend Airport has been shut down until further notice after a light aircraft crashed and burst into flames shortly after takeoff on Sunday afternoon, sending plumes of black smoke into the sky and triggering an emergency response.
According to Essex Police, officers responded to reports of a collision involving a 12-metre aircraft at approximately 3:48 p.m. The scene remains active as emergency services continue operations at the crash site.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area, stating that “work will be ongoing for several hours.”
Passengers Advised to Contact Airlines
Southend Airport confirmed the closure, citing a “serious incident” and advising Monday passengers to contact their airlines for travel updates and alternatives.
“We ask that any passengers due to travel tomorrow via London Southend Airport contact their airline for information and advice,” the airport said in a statement.
Dutch Charter Firm Confirms Aircraft Involved
Zeusch Aviation, a charter operator based in the Netherlands, identified the aircraft involved as their SUZ1 flight, a Beech B200 Super King Air that was headed to Lelystad Airport in the Netherlands.
“Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected,” the company said.
Eyewitness: “There Was a Large Fireball”
Eyewitness John Johnson, who was at the airport with his wife and children, said the pilots waved to families while taxiing before the crash occurred seconds after takeoff.
“The aircraft took off and within a few seconds had a steep bank to the left. It almost seemed to invert and unfortunately crashed. There was a large fireball,” Johnson told Sky News.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of occupants on board or any casualties. Flight tracking data shows the plane was in the air for just moments before the crash.
Emergency responders, including police, fire services, and medical personnel, remain at the scene, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash.
