July 13, 2025
By JamRadio News Desk | Breaking News -
A small aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Southend Airport on Sunday afternoon, erupting into a fireball that sent shockwaves through Essex and beyond.
The Beech B200 Super King Air, operated by Dutch firm Zeusch Aviation, was bound for Lelystad in the Netherlands when it plunged to the ground near Rochford Hundred Golf Club at approximately 3:48pm. The plane had climbed to just 175 feet before banking sharply and nosediving. Witnesses reported seeing the pilots wave before the aircraft flipped mid-air and exploded on impact.
Emergency services, including Essex Police, East of England Ambulance Service, and Essex County Fire and Rescue, arrived within minutes. Crews deployed air ambulances, hazardous response teams, and four ambulances. Rochford Hundred Golf Club was evacuated, and Westcliff Rugby Club was put on alert.
All EasyJet flights from Southend were cancelled for the remainder of the day. Passengers travelling to Paris, Alicante, Faro and Palma de Mallorca were offered rebookings, refunds, and hotel stays.
As of Sunday evening, the number of casualties remains unconfirmed. The aircraft had already completed two earlier flights — from Athens to Pula, and Pula to Southend — prior to the crash. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Hague reported no requests for consular assistance.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was receiving ongoing updates and extended her thoughts to all affected. Local MP David Burton-Sampson also expressed his sorrow, saying, “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. The community stands united in grief.”
Southend City Council has confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely. The cause of the crash is now under investigation.
JamRadio.uk will continue to provide updates as new details emerge.
