Essex Police responded to reports of a plane crash involving a single 12-metre aircraft shortly before 4:00 PM. Authorities confirmed that emergency services are actively working at the crash site and have urged the public to avoid the area while the response continues.
As a result of what officials have called a “serious incident,” Southend Airport has been closed indefinitely. Passengers scheduled to fly from the airport on Monday are being advised to contact their airlines for the latest travel updates.
The aircraft involved has been identified as a Beech B200 Super King Air. According to flight-tracking data from Flightradar, it departed at 3:48 PM, en route to Lelystad in the Netherlands.
Eyewitnesses at the scene described the dramatic moments leading up to the crash. John Johnson, who was at the airport with his family, said the pilots waved at them before takeoff. Moments after becoming airborne, the aircraft reportedly banked sharply to the left, appeared to roll over, and then crashed, resulting in a large fireball.
Wren Stranix, a 16-year-old passenger aboard another plane waiting to depart for Newquay, witnessed the crash from her seat. She said passengers were confined to the aircraft while emergency crews responded, and that confusion initially surrounded the situation. Eventually, all flights were cancelled and passengers were brought back to the terminal.
Southend Airport later confirmed the downed aircraft was a general aviation plane. EasyJet, one of the few commercial carriers operating at the airport, announced that all remaining Sunday flights were either cancelled or rerouted. The airline has contacted affected passengers and advised those flying Monday to check for updates online.
Emergency services responded in full force, with Essex County Fire and Rescue deploying four fire crews and off-road vehicles, while the East of England Ambulance Service sent multiple ambulances, specialist teams, and an air ambulance.
Local MP David Burton-Sampson urged residents to steer clear of the area and let emergency crews carry out their work. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she is closely monitoring developments.
Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin emphasized the importance of gathering accurate information in these initial stages and assured the public that authorities are working closely with the Air Accident Investigation Branch to determine the cause of the crash.
