- A small aircraft crashed at Southend Airport shortly after takeoff, sparking a major emergency response.
- Authorities have closed the airport indefinitely as investigations continue.
- Zeusch Aviation confirmed its Beechcraft King Air B200 was involved in the incident.
A small aircraft operated by Dutch firm Zeusch Aviation crashed shortly after takeoff at London Southend Airport on Sunday afternoon, prompting a full emergency response from local authorities.
As a result of the crash, all flights to and from the airport were cancelled, with passengers urged to contact their airlines for alternative arrangements.
Flight Disaster Grounds Southend Airport: Zeusch Aviation Plane Involved in Crash
Several bystanders near the airport reported hearing a loud bang followed by a plume of smoke. Some described seeing the aircraft struggle to gain altitude before veering sharply and crashing near the runway. Emergency sirens filled the air within minutes as personnel raced to respond.
The Beechcraft B200 Super King Air is widely used in medical evacuation services and is known for its reliability in short-range flights. Measuring approximately 12 meters in length and valued at over £1.4 million, the aircraft can seat six passengers and two crew members.
London Southend Airport, a growing hub for budget airlines, has faced a complete suspension of services. Flights were either cancelled or redirected to other airports like Gatwick and Stansted. The financial and operational implications for both the airport and its partner airlines could be significant in the days ahead.
Zeusch Aviation has released a statement confirming the aircraft’s involvement in the crash and pledged full cooperation with investigators. Southend Airport authorities have offered condolences to those affected and emphasized that operations will resume only when it is safe to do so.
While the full extent of the incident is still under investigation, the Southend Airport crash serves as a stark reminder of aviation’s inherent risks and the importance of rapid emergency coordination.
“Safety in aviation is not just a goal—it’s a daily commitment.” — Unknown
