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Four people have been confirmed dead after a small aircraft crashed into a “fireball” near London Southend Airport on Sunday afternoon, Essex Police confirmed in a live news conference this afternoon.
Plane went “head first” into ground
Emergency services rushed to the scene just before 4pm on Sunday, after reports that a 12-metre Beechcraft King Air B200 aircraft had crashed shortly after take-off.
Witnesses described the plane diving nose-first into the ground and erupting in flames, with plumes of black smoke visible across the region. Photos from the scene showed twisted wreckage and charred debris.
All Four Occupants Killed
At today’s press briefing, Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin confirmed that all four occupants of the aircraft had died at the scene. All are believed to be foreign nationals, and efforts are now underway to formally identify the deceased and notify their families.
Those who have passed away will be treated with the utmost care and dignity,” said Ch Supt Cronin.
He also confirmed that dozens of witnesses are being interviewed and that a significant air exclusion zone has been established by the Civil Aviation Authority to support the investigation.
Major Investigation Launched
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has deployed a multi-disciplinary team to the crash site, including specialists in aircraft operations, engineering, and human factors.
“Our inquiries are ongoing today,” said Lisa Fitzsimons, the lead AAIB investigator.
Southend Airport Remains Closed
Jude Winstanley, CEO of London Southend Airport, confirmed the airport remains closed until further notice, with inbound and outbound flights suspended.
“We’re in constant dialogue with airlines and urge passengers to contact them directly for the latest updates,” he said.
The airport is working closely with the AAIB and emergency services to facilitate the investigation.
About the Aircraft
The aircraft involved was operated by Zeusch Aviation, a Dutch company based at Lelystad Airport. The flight—callsign SUZ1—was reportedly en route to Lelystad via Southend after making earlier stops in Athens and Pula, Croatia.
Zeusch Aviation confirmed the aircraft was involved in an “accident” and expressed condolences to those affected.
Their website indicates the aircraft is used for aerial survey work and medical transport, including the movement of organs and patients.
