A Beechcraft B200 Super King Air medical transport aircraft operated by Dutch company Zeusch Aviation crashed just seconds after takeoff from London Southend Airport, erupting into a massive fireball. The incident occurred around 4 p.m. local time on Sunday, prompting immediate emergency action.

Airport Shuts Down and Grounds All Flights

Following the crash, London Southend Airport was immediately closed, with all inbound and outbound flights diverted or cancelled indefinitely. Some airlines rerouted their flights, advising affected passengers to check directly for rebooking updates.

Eyewitnesses Describe Sudden Bank and Inverted Descent

Eyewitnesses reported the plane sharply banking to the left, tilting upside down before crashing nose-first. They said the aircraft burst into flames mid-air and struck the ground in a vertical, head-first impact—producing large plumes of black smoke and debris.

Emergency Services Mount Large-Scale Response

Essex Police, Essex Fire & Rescue, East of England Ambulance Service (including air ambulance units), and the Air Accident Investigation Branch responded swiftly. Nearby facilities like Rochford Hundred Golf Club and Westcliff Rugby Club were evacuated as a precaution. Four ambulances and a hazardous area response team were among the units deployed.

Operator Confirms Flight SUZ1 Was Involved

Zeusch Aviation confirmed that flight SUZ1, a medical evacuation mission reportedly en route to the Netherlands, was involved in the crash. The company is fully cooperating with authorities and has issued public condolences to those affected.

Casualty Status Remains Unconfirmed

As of now, official information regarding passenger or crew numbers and potential casualties or injuries has not been released. Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and await official updates once the crash site and flight manifest are analyzed.

Investigation Underway by Essex Police, AAIB, Airport Authority

Essex Police declared the event a “serious incident,” working alongside the Air Accident Investigation Branch and airport officials. They have launched a comprehensive inquiry into the flight’s last seconds, aircraft maintenance records, crew qualifications, and any potential mechanical faults.

Spokespersons Appeal for Public to Stay Clear

Local authorities and the airport urged the public to avoid the crash site, respect the safety cordon, and allow emergency responders to carry out their duties effectively. A temporary exclusion zone remains in place around the runway area.

Flight Disruptions May Continue as Investigation Proceeds

With the airport shut and flights cancelled indefinitely, recovery operations and remediation may take days. Travelers were advised to stay in contact with their airlines for updates and to expect extended delays or further cancellations.

Conclusion: Tragic Crash Sparks Safety and Operational Review

The sudden crash of a medical transport aircraft at Southend Airport underscores urgent aeronautical safety checks, airport response readiness, and adherence to medical air-transport protocols. As investigations proceed, authorities will determine causes and recommend corrective actions to prevent future tragedies.