Fireball in the Sky: Small Plane Crash Halts Operations at Southend Airport
Earlier today, an ordinary Sunday afternoon at London Southend Airport turned into a scene of chaos and shock, as a small aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, erupting into a devastating fireball. Witnesses stood in disbelief as plumes of black smoke rose into the Essex sky, following what officials have now confirmed as a “serious incident” involving a Beechcraft B200 Super King Air aircraft.
It happened just before 4:00 PM local time. According to Essex Police, they were called to the site after reports of a 12-metre plane crashing and catching fire moments after departure. The aircraft, which had just taken off from the runway and was en route to Lelystad in the Netherlands, appeared to bank sharply before flipping and crashing headfirst into the ground.
One eyewitness, John Johnson, was at the airport with his family. He shared a chilling account of the moment: “We all waved at the pilots, and they waved back. The plane powered up and took off normally, but just a few seconds later, it began banking left hard, inverted, and then went straight down. Then—just flames, a huge fireball. Everyone around was in shock, especially the children.”
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Emergency response was immediate and intense. The East of England Ambulance Service dispatched four ambulances, hazardous area response teams, and a senior paramedic, while the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service sent crews from Southend, Basildon, Rayleigh Weir, and more. Off-road support vehicles from Billericay and Chelmsford also joined the operation. The situation remains active, and emergency personnel are still working at the scene hours later.
As a direct result of the crash, all flights from Southend Airport were cancelled. According to the airport’s official website, at least four scheduled departures were scrapped, and two inbound flights were diverted to Gatwick and Stansted. The airport issued a statement confirming a “serious incident” involving a general aviation aircraft and assured the public that they are working closely with emergency services and local authorities.
The impact extended beyond the airport boundaries. Nearby locations, including Rochford Hundred Golf Club and Westcliff Rugby Club, were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Officials have urged the public to avoid the area while recovery operations continue.
Public figures have also voiced concern. Local MP David Burton-Sampson shared his thoughts online, saying, “Please keep away and allow emergency services to do their work. My thoughts are with everyone involved.” Southend Councilor Matt Dent echoed the sentiment, expressing deep concern for those affected and for the first responders at the scene.
While full details about the occupants of the aircraft are still emerging, the emotional toll is already apparent. For those who witnessed the incident firsthand, it's an image that will not soon fade. For the wider community, it's a reminder of the unpredictability of aviation, even at a small regional airport.
Right now, what matters most is the investigation ahead and the support for everyone touched by today’s tragedy. Our thoughts go out to those on board, their loved ones, and the brave emergency personnel still on the ground.
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