UK Jet Crash Shuts Down Southend Airport
A small aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff at London Southend Airport on July 13, prompting a large-scale emergency response and the temporary suspension of all airport operations.
The aircraft involved was a Beechcraft Super King Air, registered PH-ZAZ, and operated by a private European aviation firm. It was scheduled to fly from Southend to Lelystad in the Netherlands. Witnesses described the jet rising off the runway before veering sharply to the left, flipping mid-air, and crashing nose-first into the ground. A loud explosion followed, with flames and black smoke visible from nearby areas.
Emergency services, including multiple fire engines, ambulances, air ambulances, and hazardous material teams, responded to the crash within minutes. Areas near the crash site were evacuated for safety, including a nearby golf course and rugby club.
Local law enforcement described it as a “serious incident” and asked the public to avoid the area. Flight operations at the airport were immediately suspended, causing travel disruptions. The number of people on board and the extent of casualties have not yet been officially confirmed.
The operator of the aircraft confirmed that one of its flights was involved in the incident and stated that a full investigation is underway in coordination with air safety authorities.
The Beechcraft Super King Air is commonly used for charter, air ambulance, and corporate travel. It has a generally reliable safety record, which makes the cause of this crash particularly significant. Investigators are now working to determine what led to the tragic mid-air failure.
