London Southend Airport remains temporarily closed following a serious aviation incident that occurred on Sunday afternoon. At approximately 3:58 p.m. BST, an aircraft operated by Dutch charter company Zeusch Aviation lost control shortly after takeoff, resulting in a crash that has prompted a full investigation by aviation and emergency authorities.
The aircraft, identified as flight SUZ1, had made prior stops in Athens, Greece, and Pula, Croatia, before arriving in Southend. Its planned final destination was Lelystad, Netherlands. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Zeusch Aviation has confirmed its full cooperation with authorities and expressed deep concern for those affected.
One fatality has been confirmed, and while no civilian injuries on the ground have been reported, emergency teams described the crash scene as highly challenging due to intense heat and smoke. The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) arrived within hours to begin analyzing the wreckage and reviewing flight data.
Witnesses near the airport reported seeing the aircraft take off normally before it appeared to lose stability. “It started just like any other flight,” said John Johnson, a nearby resident. “But then it veered sharply, and everything changed so fast.”
Emergency responders were quick to act, containing the resulting fire and securing the area. Flights were immediately suspended, and passengers inside the terminal were safely evacuated. Many travelers were unaware of the full scope of the incident until escorted from the building.
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