London Southend Airport plane crash: Here's what happened at Essex airport; video shows massive fireball
GLOBAL DEFENCE
A tragic aviation incident struck London Southend Airport on July 13, 2025, when a Beechcraft B200 Super King Air aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, erupting into a massive fireball. The plane reportedly lost control moments after leaving the runway, sharply banking and flipping before nose-diving into a grassy area near the airport. Eyewitnesses described the explosion as “immense,” with video footage showing a towering column of black smoke rising into the sky.
Emergency response teams, including fire brigades, paramedics, and air ambulances, arrived within minutes to contain the blaze and begin rescue operations. The number of individuals onboard has not been officially confirmed, but early reports indicate possible fatalities. The aircraft was completely engulfed in flames upon impact, making survival unlikely, though a full casualty report is still pending.
Bystanders from nearby locations, including a local golf course, reported hearing a thunderous blast and witnessing the plane's final moments. Several homes and businesses were shaken by the shockwave, and parts of the airport were temporarily closed. The crash has left the local community and aviation authorities in shock, prompting immediate safety reviews.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) have launched a formal investigation. Preliminary theories include mechanical failure or pilot error, but weather was reportedly clear. As investigators analyze flight data and cockpit recordings, the nation awaits clarity on one of the most alarming aviation incidents in recent times.
