Video: Small plane crashes moments after takeoff at London Southend Airport

London: A small passenger aircraft crashed shortly after taking off from Southend Airport on Sunday afternoon, erupting into a massive fireball and sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky, according to The Independent.

The incident occurred around 4pm local time. Initial reports indicate that the aircraft was a Beech B200 Super King Air, a twin-engine turboprop jet, bound for Lelystad in the Netherlands.

Emergency services responded immediately, with police, fire, and rescue teams rushing to the crash site. Authorities have yet to confirm the number of people on board or any casualties. Witnesses described the crash as “tragic,” with some claiming they had waved to the crew moments before the disaster.

Videos from the scene show flames engulfing the wreckage and heavy smoke rising from the area. The aircraft reportedly belonged to Zeusch Aviation, a Dutch-based company.

In a statement, Essex Police said: “We are working with all emergency services at the scene now and that work will be ongoing for several hours. We would please ask the public to avoid this area while this work continues.”

The area around the crash site has been cordoned off, and investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash.