Small plane crashed shortly after take-off

SOUTHEND, ENGLAND – A small aircraft crash at Southend Airport, roughly an hour’s drive east of London, has sparked significant concern. Witnesses described seeing a large fireball and thick black smoke rising into the sky, prompting immediate emergency responses.

Details remain sparse, but authorities have confirmed the incident occurred around 4 p.m. local time. The aircraft, reportedly en route to the Netherlands, experienced difficulties shortly after takeoff. An eyewitness recounted seeing the plane bank sharply to the left before plunging nose-first into the ground.

The aircraft, capable of seating up to eight passengers, was not confirmed to have any passengers on board at the time of the crash. It remains unclear whether it was carrying cargo. Emergency services, including four ambulance crews and firefighting units, rushed to the scene, accompanied by specialized hazardous area response teams.

Police have labeled the event a “serious incident” and have advised the public to avoid the airport area. All departing flights have been canceled, and the airport remains closed indefinitely as investigators work to determine the cause of the crash.

Airport authorities are cooperating fully with the investigation and have pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available. The closure of Southend Airport has impacted scheduled flights, leaving travelers seeking alternative arrangements.

Local residents have expressed shock at the event, with many gathering near the airport to catch a glimpse of the ongoing emergency operations. The community remains on edge as they await further news.

The investigation is ongoing, and officials are expected to release more details once a preliminary assessment is completed. In the meantime, safety measures have been heightened, and authorities are working diligently to ensure the area is secure.