London Southend Airport remains closed after a deadly plane crash on Sunday afternoon. At around 3:58 p.m. BST, a 12-meter aircraft owned by Dutch charter company Zeusch Aviation crashed shortly after takeoff, exploding into a massive fireball. At least one person was confirmed dead. The flight, SUZ1, had previously flown from Athens to Pula and made a stop at Southend before heading to Lelystad, Netherlands.
Eyewitnesses said the plane initially took off normally but suddenly veered sharply to the left, flipped, and fell from the sky. A loud explosion followed, with smoke seen from over 10 miles away. Emergency responders were on scene quickly but faced difficulties due to the intensity of the fire.
All flights were grounded, terminals evacuated, and passengers stranded. Many didn’t understand what had happened until they saw the flames or smelled smoke. There were no injuries reported on the ground, but the emotional toll on the local community has been severe.
The UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) is investigating the cause. The aircraft’s black boxes have been recovered and are being analyzed. Although some speculate pilot error or engine failure, authorities have asked the public not to jump to conclusions.
Zeusch Aviation confirmed ownership of the aircraft and expressed deep sorrow, offering condolences and pledging full cooperation with investigators. The company specializes in medical and charter flights.
Locals near the airport described the event as terrifying. Many are shaken, and some have raised concerns about low-flying aircraft and safety procedures at small airports. A memorial of flowers and notes has already appeared near the airport gates.
The airport’s CEO said it will remain closed until further notice. Travelers affected by cancellations are urged to contact their airlines for rebooking or refunds. As investigations continue, the community waits for answers — grieving the lives lost and hoping for safer skies ahead.
