Southend Airport plane crashes have once again shaken the UK, as a tragic plane crash in London took place on Sunday afternoon. A Beechcraft B200 Super King Air operated by Dutch aviation firm Zeusch Aviation crashed shortly after takeoff from London Southend Airport, killing all four people on board.
The aircraft exploded into flames just seconds after liftoff, turning what was supposed to be a routine flight into one of the most horrifying plane crashes Southend has seen in recent years.
For the latest live updates, click the link below:
Live updates on the London Southend Airport plane crash
Eyewitnesses Describe a Fireball
John Johnson, a local from Billericay, Essex, was at the airport with his wife and kids when the plane took off.
“We saw the pilots smiling, then suddenly the plane flipped left and hit the ground hard. It blew up into a fireball. We couldn’t believe our eyes.”
Nearby, James Philpott, working at the Rochford Hundred Golf Club, said he felt a blast of heat before seeing the explosion. “It was insane. A heatwave hit, then we saw the sky fill with smoke. Total shock.”
Golf course areas were evacuated, while Westcliff Rugby Club, located about 1 km away, was not impacted directly but witnessed heavy smoke in the sky.
What Happened?
The plane had flown earlier that day from Athens to Pula, Croatia, then continued to Southend Airport. It was scheduled to return to the Netherlands later that evening.
Eyewitnesses say the plane banked unusually to the left after takeoff, flipped mid-air, and slammed nose-first into the ground, triggering a massive explosion.
Flight data confirmed that the aircraft went down shortly after takeoff, leading to a thick black smoke cloud rising into the air.
Emergency Response
Emergency teams arrived quickly. Essex Police, the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), and multiple ambulance units responded. Four ambulances and an air ambulance were on site.
Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin of Essex Police said:
“We are gathering information from all witnesses and coordinating with aviation authorities to understand the cause of this tragic plane crash.”
The police also urged the public to use the online major incident portal instead of crowding emergency lines.
Official Reactions
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:
“My thoughts are with the victims and their families. I’m receiving updates by the hour.”
Local MPs including David Burton-Sampson and Matt Dent shared their condolences on social media, while Bayo Alaba, MP for Southend East and Rochford, said:
“This shook me. It’s a heartbreaking day for Southend.”
Aircraft Background
The Beechcraft B200 Super King Air is a twin-engine utility aircraft often used for medical transfers, mapping, and cargo transport. It’s known for durability and versatility.
Aviation analysts pointed out that previous incidents with this aircraft type have involved throttle control issues, which can cause sudden power loss in one engine. In this case, the sharp left turn may indicate engine failure or loss of control.
Airport Closed
London Southend Airport will remain closed until further notice. EasyJet confirmed three flight cancellations on Monday and said remaining flights were rerouted to other London-area airports.
A spokesperson said:
“We are assisting passengers with rebooking and refunds. Please check your flight status before arriving.”
FAQs
Q: What caused the Southend Airport plane crash?
👉 Authorities are still investigating. Engine failure is suspected, but nothing is confirmed yet.
Q: How many people died?
👉 Four people were confirmed dead by emergency services.
Q: Was the aircraft on a commercial flight?
👉 No, it was a private aircraft operated by Zeusch Aviation, not a scheduled passenger flight.
Q: Is London Southend Airport open?
👉 The airport is currently closed and flights are being redirected.
Q: What type of plane was it?
👉 A Beechcraft B200 Super King Air, commonly used for utility and private missions.
Final Thoughts
This tragic event adds to the history of Southend Airport plane crashes, and has deeply impacted the local community. As investigators from the AAIB continue their work, questions remain about what led to such a violent plane crash in London skies.
Stay connected with FastGovtNewsAlert for updates as the investigation unfolds.
