An aircraft has crashed at London Southend Airport, prompting a significant emergency response. Essex Police were alerted to the incident involving a 12-metre plane on fire shortly before 4:00 PM BST on Sunday. Eyewitness John Johnson, 40, who was at the airport with his family, described witnessing a “huge fireball” after the plane took off but banked heavily to the left and descended rapidly.
In light of the crash, the airport has been closed indefinitely, and all flights to and from Southend have been canceled. Authorities urged affected passengers to contact their airlines for information while expressing their condolences to those impacted by this incident.
Witnesses reported a chaotic scene as people ran towards the crash site, trying to ascertain if anyone needed help. James Philpott, a bartender nearby, described feelings of shock among bystanders as they observed the fire that engulfed the aircraft. Fortunately, the chairman of the Westcliff Rugby Club reported that no evacuation was necessary, although people at the clubhouse could perceive smoke from the crash site.
Essex Police are now working alongside the Air Accident Investigation Branch to gather as much information as possible on the crash. Ch Supt Morgan Cronin emphasized the importance of gathering information promptly while providing support to the local community affected by this event. The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service dispatched multiple crews to assist with the response and has advised residents to avoid the area.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander conveyed her sympathies for all involved and is receiving regular updates regarding the situation. Local officials, including Southend West MP David Burton-Sampson and Matt Dent of the Southend City Council, are also actively monitoring the response.
This tragic event highlights the urgency of enhancing aviation safety protocols and the resilience of communities coming together in the face of adversity. As authorities investigate, there is hope that valuable insights will emerge that could help prevent future incidents and enhance safety for all passengers.
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