LONDON — A routine afternoon turned into a scene of chaos and horror as a business jet crashed at London Southend Airport on Monday, just after 4:00 p.m. local time, sending thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the summer sky. The crash sparked a massive fireball visible from miles away, halting operations at the regional airport and triggering a large-scale emergency response.
Eyewitnesses described a deafening roar followed by a tremendous explosion as the aircraft, believed to be a mid-size private business jet, went down near one of the main runways. Several individuals at the scene reported feeling the ground shake from the blast.
“I was watching planes take off with my son when we saw it,” said Louise Grant, a local resident. “The jet was coming in low and fast—it didn’t look right. Then there was this huge flash and fire, followed by a towering column of smoke. It was terrifying.”
Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene, including multiple units from Essex Fire and Rescue, East of England Ambulance Service, and Essex Police. Firefighters battled intense flames as they worked to contain the blaze and prevent further damage, while paramedics stood by to treat any potential survivors or injuries on the ground.
Officials have not yet confirmed how many people were aboard the aircraft, but sources say the jet was on approach to land when it encountered unknown difficulties. There is no official word yet on fatalities or injuries, but authorities have indicated that the situation is “serious and developing.”
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) have both been notified and are expected to launch a full investigation into the crash. Air traffic was suspended at Southend Airport immediately after the incident, and flights are being redirected while investigators and emergency crews secure the scene.
In a statement Monday evening, a spokesperson for Southend Airport said:
“We can confirm that a serious incident involving a business jet has occurred at approximately 4:00 p.m. local time. Emergency services are on site. The airport is currently closed to all air traffic. Further details will be shared as soon as they are available.”
The identity of the aircraft, its ownership, and its flight origin remain unconfirmed, though aviation tracking data suggests it may have been a chartered jet en route from mainland Europe. Witnesses reported that the aircraft appeared to be struggling during its descent, but no mayday call was made before the crash.
As of Monday night, emergency crews continue to work at the site. The fire has been brought under control, but charred wreckage and scorched tarmac remain behind—haunting evidence of the tragedy that unfolded in broad daylight.
Local officials have urged the public to avoid the area and to allow first responders and investigators to do their work. Travelers with flights scheduled through London Southend are advised to check with their airlines for alternative arrangements.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and the broader aviation industry, raising urgent questions about what went wrong and whether more lives could have been at risk.
More updates will follow as authorities release additional information. For now, the hearts of a city—and a nation—are with those affected by today’s devastating crash.
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