Small Plane Crash at Southend Airport Triggers Explosion, Evacuations, and Flight Cancellations

A small aircraft crashed at London Southend Airport in Essex on Sunday, triggering a massive explosion and thick plumes of smoke visible from miles away. The type of aircraft has not been officially confirmed, but reports on social media suggest it may have been a Beech B200 Super King Air.

There is no official word yet on casualties or injuries.

Operations at the airport have been suspended until further notice, and at least five international flights were cancelled, according to the airport’s website.

Emergency services rushed to the scene following the crash, which occurred shortly before 4 p.m. Essex Police confirmed that a 12-metre aircraft was involved in the incident and said the response will continue for several hours. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to work.

Videos shared online show a fiery explosion followed by a large smoke cloud rising from the crash site.

As a precaution, nearby Rochford Hundred Golf Club and Westcliff Rugby Club were evacuated due to their proximity to the scene.

The East of England Ambulance Service deployed a significant emergency response, including four ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, several Hazardous Area Response Team units, senior paramedics, and an air ambulance.

Local MP David Burton-Sampson addressed the situation on social media, saying:

“I am aware of an incident at Southend Airport. Please keep away and allow the emergency services to do their work. My thoughts are with everyone involved. 🙏🏽”

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.