Tragedy on the Runway: Small Plane Crashes Shortly After Takeoff in Essex

A routine flight from Essex to the Netherlands turned into a scene of devastation when a 40-foot Beech B200 aircraft crashed just moments after takeoff, only 175 feet into its ascent. The twin-engine plane, bound for Lelystad in the Netherlands, went down a few yards from the runway, sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky.

Video clips quickly surfaced online, capturing the rising smoke cloud and stunned passengers nearby—some boarding other aircraft at the time. The crash has since halted operations at Essex Airport, with several EasyJet flights grounded or delayed.

According to data from Flightradar, the plane was scheduled to depart at 3:45 p.m. but took off around 3:55 p.m. The aircraft, estimated to be 31 years old, can seat up to 12 passengers. The exact number of people on board remains unconfirmed, though eyewitnesses say the pilots were seen cheerfully waving to nearby children just before takeoff.

But only seconds after becoming airborne, witnesses say the plane sharply veered left, rolled, and then slammed into the ground in a fiery explosion.

“We waved at the pilots, and they waved back. Just a few seconds later, the plane tilted hard to the left, flipped, and crashed,” recalled airport visitor John Johnson, who was with his family at the time. “It turned into a giant fireball. Everyone was in total shock—especially the children who saw it unfold right in front of them.”

Emergency crews responded swiftly. Firefighters, paramedics, and Essex Police arrived within minutes. A wide safety cordon was set up around the crash site, and local authorities are urging residents to stay away from the area.

Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin of Essex Police addressed the public, emphasizing the importance of accurate information gathering in these initial stages. “We understand the public’s need for answers, but our priority now is to investigate thoroughly alongside the Air Accident Investigation Branch,” she said.

Dedicated hotlines have been set up for those seeking information:

• UK callers: 0800 096 1011

• International callers: +44 207 158 0126

• Online updates: Major Incident Public Portal

“We promise to share details as they become available,” Cronin added. “But we ask for patience as we work to understand exactly what went wrong today.”

As families reel from the trauma and aviation authorities begin their deep dive into the cause, the entire community is left shaken by this sudden and tragic event.