Airport remains shut down following
Tragic Crash Shuts Down Southend Airport
On Sunday afternoon, a small 12-meter aircraft lost control shortly after takeoff from London Southend Airport and crashed in a fiery explosion visible for miles. At least one person died in the accident, which halted all flights at the regional airport. The plane, owned by Dutch company Zeusch Aviation, was on a routine flight from Athens to Lelystad, with stops in Croatia and Southend. Zeusch Aviation said it is “fully assisting authorities” as investigations continue.
Witness Accounts and Emergency Response
Eyewitness John Johnson described the crash: “It began to rise like any other flight, but all of a sudden it banked violently to the left… Then it simply fell. No mayday, no warning. Then the explosion occurred.”
Emergency crews struggled to approach due to intense flames and thick smoke seen from over ten miles away. The airport was evacuated as dozens of emergency vehicles responded quickly. Passenger Maria Hutchins recalled, “The panic was genuine when we smelled the smoke and saw the flames through the window.”
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Airport chief Jude Winstanley said, “The people impacted by this incident are our top priority.” Investigators from the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch arrived promptly and recovered black boxes from the “severely damaged” wreckage. Authorities warn against speculating about causes until the investigation concludes. Zeusch Aviation expressed “deep sorrow” and reaffirmed their commitment to safety.
Community Impact and Future Steps
Local residents were deeply shaken by the crash. Dennis Farrow, living near the airport, said, “I had never heard that sound before. Then the fire’s heat—it was unbelievable. Whoever was on that plane is in my prayers.”
Emergency services were praised for containing the fire and preventing injuries on the ground. The tragedy has sparked calls for improved safety measures at Southend Airport as it remains closed. A memorial has formed near the terminal as the community mourns and awaits answers.
