Authorities reported that a tiny plane crashed at London Southend Airport on the southeast coast of England on Sunday afternoon, resulting in a massive emergency reaction and the cancellation of flights.
A 12-meter general aviation plane was reported to be on fire at the location in Southend-on-Sea just before 4 p.m. (BST), according to Essex Police.
A police representative stated, “We remain on the scene of a serious incident at Southend Airport,” and that emergency procedures would last for several hours. While the work is being done, the public is urged to stay away from the area.
Four emergency crews, including a senior paramedic, a hazardous area response team, and a fast response vehicle, were sent to the location by the East of England Ambulance Service.
Along with off-road vehicles from Billericay and Chelmsford, the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service also responded, sending two teams from Southend, Rayleigh Weir, and Basildon.
A general aviation aircraft was engaged in the incident, according to an airport official. “We can confirm there has been a serious incident at London Southend Airport this afternoon involving a general aviation aircraft,” the message continued. Additionally, the airport stated that it is in close collaboration with local authorities and will furnish additional details “as soon as possible.”
According to the airport’s website, the collision caused at least four scheduled flights to be cancelled on Sunday afternoon. The number of passengers and their conditions on board the aeroplane have not yet been made public by the authorities.
A fireball seemed to be rising into the air over the airport, which is about 35 miles (56 km) east of London, according to images released by British media agencies.
David Burton-Sampson, the Labour MP for Southend West and Leigh, wrote on X, “My thoughts are with everyone involved.” “At the moment, all I know is that a small plane has crashed at the airport,” wrote Matt Dent, the Southend City Council’s cabinet member for business, culture, music, and tourism, on X. My sympathies are with everyone concerned, as well as the emergency services who are now handling the situation.”
