London Southend Airport Remains Closed After Deadly Plane Crash and Fireball
Operations at London Southend Airport have been suspended indefinitely after a tragic aircraft crash on Sunday that resulted in a massive fireball, according to airport CEO Jude Winstanley.
The incident took place shortly before 4 p.m. local time when Essex Police were alerted to a blazing 12-meter aircraft on airport grounds.
Zeusch Aviation, a Dutch airline, has confirmed that one of its aircraft, operating under the flight code SUZ1, was involved in the crash. The company stated it is fully cooperating with investigators. The aircraft had originated in Athens, made a scheduled stop in Pula, Croatia, and landed in Southend before preparing for a final leg to Lelystad in the Netherlands.
Eyewitness John Johnson from Billericay recalled the terrifying final moments. “The plane had just taken off when it veered sharply to the left,” he told the BBC. “In seconds, it nearly flipped upside down and smashed into the ground. Then came a massive explosion—it was a fireball.”
Emergency crews responded swiftly, but the airport remains closed as the investigation continues and safety checks are underway.