Medical Jet Crashes At London Southend Airport, Sparks Fireball

Emergency services rushed to London Southend Airport on Sunday following the crash of a small aircraft shortly after takeoff, triggering a massive fireball and halting all flight operations.

The airport confirmed via social media that a “serious incident” had occurred involving a general aviation aircraft. While specific details regarding the number of passengers or the flight’s exact destination were not immediately released, British media reported the plane was a medical transport jet—a Beechcraft B200 Super King Air—en route to the Netherlands.

Dramatic footage shared online shortly after the crash showed thick black smoke and flames pouring from the wreckage. The aircraft, measuring about 12 meters (39 feet) in length, appeared to have crashed nose-first into the ground shortly after takeoff.

Eyewitness John Johnson, who was at the airport with his family, described the terrifying moment:

“It took off, and about three or four seconds later it started banking hard to the left. Within seconds, it flipped almost upside down and slammed straight into the ground. Then there was a huge fireball.”

Johnson recalled a brief, heartwarming moment just before the crash.

“We waved at the pilots, and they all waved back at us,” he said. Moments later, the tragedy unfolded before their eyes.

Emergency responders, including airport fire services, local police, ambulance crews, and firefighters, quickly converged on the scene. Two fire engines were among the first to arrive.

Essex Police confirmed they were notified just before 4 p.m. local time and are coordinating with other emergency agencies.

“We are working with all emergency services at the scene now, and that effort will continue for several hours,” a police spokesperson said.

All flights to and from London Southend Airport have been cancelled until further notice.

Local MP David Burton-Sampson issued a statement urging the public to stay clear of the area to allow emergency services to work without disruption.

“My thoughts are with everyone involved,” he said.

Investigations are ongoing as air accident officials assess the cause of the crash.